Pittosporum tobira 'Variegata'

Flowers

• Appearance: The flowers are small, white, and star-shaped, clustered in rounded groups at the ends of branches. Each flower measures about 0.5 inches in diameter.
• Bloom Time: Blooms in late spring to early summer, adding a seasonal touch of elegance to the shrub.
• Fragrance: Highly fragrant with a sweet, citrus-like aroma reminiscent of orange blossoms, making it a delightful sensory addition to the garden.
• Attractiveness: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, contributing to the garden's biodiversity.

Foliage

• Appearance: The leaves are oval-shaped, leathery, and glossy, with striking variegation. Each leaf has creamy white to pale yellow margins surrounding a deep green center, creating a bright and cheerful look.
• Texture: Smooth and slightly waxy, adding a refined texture to the overall appearance of the plant.
• Growth Habit: Leaves grow densely along the branches, forming a compact, rounded canopy that retains its beauty throughout the year.
• Seasonality: Evergreen, providing year-round interest and serving as a reliable backdrop for seasonal blooms.

The combination of fragrant flowers and striking variegated foliage makes Pittosporum tobira 'Variegata' a standout shrub, perfect for adding texture, color, and charm to a variety of garden settings.

Planting Requirements

• Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. In warmer climates, partial shade during the hottest part of the day can help prevent leaf scorch.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining soil, but is adaptable to sandy, loamy, or slightly clayey soils. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH is ideal.
• Planting Time: Plant in spring or fall for best establishment.

Watering

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system.
• Once established, Pittosporum tobira 'Variegata' is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as it dislikes waterlogged soils.

Fertilization

• Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, which may encourage excessive growth at the expense of its compact shape.

Pruning

• Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and maintain a compact form.
• Light trimming after flowering can encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.

Growth Habit and Size

• Grows as a dense, rounded shrub with a slow to moderate growth rate.
• Reaches a height and spread of 4–6 feet, though it can be pruned smaller or allowed to grow slightly larger in ideal conditions.

Pests and Diseases

• Generally pest-free but may occasionally encounter issues with aphids or scale insects. Treat infestations promptly with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
• Rarely affected by diseases, but proper spacing and good airflow help prevent fungal issues.

Special Features

• Foliage: Leaves are oval-shaped, leathery, and glossy, with creamy white margins surrounding a rich green center. The variegation adds visual interest year-round.
• Flowers: Clusters of small, white, star-shaped flowers bloom in late spring to early summer. They are fragrant, emitting a sweet, citrus-like scent reminiscent of orange blossoms.
• Evergreen Habit: Retains its attractive variegated foliage throughout the year.

Winter Care

• Hardy in USDA zones 8–11. Protect from harsh winter winds and extreme cold in marginal zones by applying a layer of mulch around the base and covering with frost cloth if necessary.

Landscape Uses

• Ideal for borders, hedges, foundation plantings, or container gardening. Its compact size and year-round appeal make it versatile in both formal and informal landscapes.

Additional Tips

• Tolerant of coastal conditions, including salty air and sandy soils, making it a good choice for seaside gardens.
• Can be grown indoors as a houseplant in bright, indirect light.

With its striking variegated foliage, fragrant flowers, and easy-care nature, Pittosporum tobira 'Variegata' is an excellent choice for adding elegance and structure to any garden or landscape.