Pittosporum tobira
Australian laurel
- 9 litre pot | 60 - 80cm tall
- £89.99
- available to order from spring
Delivery options
- Standard £5.99
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: May to June
- Hardiness: half hardy (will need protection in winter)
Clusters of honey-scented, bell-shaped, creamy-white flowers in late spring and early summer and lustrous, deep green leaves, which are retained all year. Japanese mock orange makes a lovely specimen plant for a sunny, sub-tropical garden in a warm coastal site. Dense and rounded in habit, in frost-prone areas give Pittosporum tobira the protection of a south or west-facing wall.
Plant in well-drained soil in a sheltered position with full sun or partial shade. Pittosporum thrives in neutral to slightly acidic soil and benefits from protection against cold winds and severe frosts, particularly in colder regions.
Water regularly during the first year to help establish strong roots, then reduce watering once settled, as mature plants are drought-tolerant. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth.
Requires minimal pruning—lightly trim in mid-spring to thin or shape if needed. Mulch annually with well-rotted compost or manure to retain moisture and improve soil quality. In colder areas, consider protecting young plants with fleece during harsh winters.
Water regularly during the first year to help establish strong roots, then reduce watering once settled, as mature plants are drought-tolerant. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth.
Requires minimal pruning—lightly trim in mid-spring to thin or shape if needed. Mulch annually with well-rotted compost or manure to retain moisture and improve soil quality. In colder areas, consider protecting young plants with fleece during harsh winters.
- CAUTION toxic if eaten/skin & eye irritant
