How to Grow Pittosporum, Kohuhu
iNaturalist
Pittosporum, Kohuhu
Pittosporum tenuifolium
shrubPittosporum tenuifolium is an evergreen shrub native to New Zealand with delicate, narrow lance-shaped leaves and fragrant deep purple-red flowers that appear in spring. It grows into an attractive, upright form and is prized for ornamental foliage and cut flower use. The plant is relatively fast-growing and tolerant of various conditions, making it popular in temperate gardens and commercial floristry.
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Example Pittosporum, Kohuhu timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pittosporum, Kohuhu
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Pittosporum, Kohuhu
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; can survive brief frosts in zone 8b with protection
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Get my Pittosporum, Kohuhu timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment (Young Transplant)
3-6 monthsSmall nursery-grown plant with initial root system adjustment to garden soil
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates during first summer. Mulch around base to retain moisture.
Vegetative Growth
1-2 yearsRapid shoot and foliage development; plant develops characteristic branching structure with narrow leaves
Continue regular watering. Light fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or 20-20-20) during growing season. Prune lightly to shape if desired.
Maturation
Ongoing after 2-3 yearsPlant reaches desired size and form; begins developing flowering buds in late fall to early spring
Reduce fertilizer frequency to 2-3 times during growing season. Maintain shape through selective pruning. Drought stress can encourage flowering.
Flowering
4-8 weeksSmall, fragrant, deep purple-red flowers appear in terminal clusters, typically in spring (Feb-April in Northern Hemisphere)
Do not fertilize heavily during flowering as this promotes foliage over blooms. Maintain moderate watering. Flowers are excellent for cutting.
Fruiting & Maturity
OngoingAfter flowering, small round seed capsules develop; plant continues to produce attractive evergreen foliage year-round
Allow seed capsules to mature if desired for wildlife or seed collection. Deadheading extends flowering in some cases. Maintain minimal supplemental watering in mature plants.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Monitor for sticky residue and curled leaves; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; prune affected branches; avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer
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Increase humidity by misting; spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or miticide if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Prune heavily infested branches; scrape off by hand; apply horticultural oil in dormant season; systemic insecticide if severe
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Control underlying pest populations; wipe foliage with damp cloth; improve air circulation
Uses
Culinary Garnish & Foliage
CulinaryThe delicate foliage is used by florists and chefs as an elegant green in floral arrangements and as a decorative garnish in fine dining presentations. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floristry
CraftHighly valued in the floral industry for its fine, airy foliage and fragrant flower clusters. Long vase life and minimal conditioning requirements make it a florist's favorite filler and structural element. [source]
Garden Ornamental & Screening
OrnamentalUsed as a specimen plant, hedge, or screen planting in temperate gardens. The narrow leaves and upright growth habit provide year-round interest and elegant structure. [source]
Nectar & Seed Source
WildlifeFragrant flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects. Seed capsules provide food for native birds and small wildlife in late season. [source]
Fragrance & Perfumery
HouseholdThe distinctive fragrant flowers are subtly sweet and spicy; traditionally used in perfumery and as a fresh-cut bloom for indoor fragrance. [source]
Harvest Tips
For cut flowers, harvest stems in early morning when flowers are fresh. Cut at a 45-degree angle, removing lower leaves. Stems last 10-14 days in a vase. For seed collection, allow capsules to fully mature and turn brown before harvesting.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Pittosporum tenuifolium is native to New Zealand, where it's called 'Kohuhu' in Māori, and was traditionally used by indigenous peoples for various purposes.
- 🌱 The name 'Pittosporum' means 'pitch seed' in Greek, referring to the sticky, resinous coating on the seeds that aids in dispersal by birds.
- 🌱 Pittosporum foliage has become so popular with florists worldwide that it is now commercially cultivated on a large scale in multiple countries, particularly in Kenya, Ecuador, and the Netherlands, making it one of the most used foliage crops in the cut flower industry.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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