Kohuhu
Pittosporum tenuifolium
Silver Queen
About this plant
Pittosporum tenuifolium, commonly known as Kohuhu, is an evergreen shrub or small tree with slender, dark green leaves and fragrant clusters of small cream-colored flowers. It is popular for hedges, screens, and ornamental gardens due to its attractive foliage and easy care. The plant is native to New Zealand and is valued for its graceful form and adaptability.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Pittosporum
- Family
- Pittosporaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Apiales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- New Zealand
- Distribution
- Native to New Zealand; widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide as an ornamental plant.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, Southeast-facing, South-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -5 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 8-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or potting mix
Watering. Water regularly during dry periods but allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Pittosporum tenuifolium is a hardy shrub that grows well in both sun and partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil and needs moderate watering. It is generally low-maintenance but benefits from occasional pruning to keep its shape.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Attractive slender leaves with a glossy finish, fragrant cream flowers in spring, and a neat, bushy form.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Generally non-toxic but avoid ingestion; sap may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex
- Pollen level
- Low
Pittosporum tenuifolium may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, mainly due to its pollen and sap. People with plant allergies should handle it with care and avoid direct contact with the sap to reduce irritation.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, and poor drainage may lead to fungal diseases. Occasionally, pests like scale insects may appear but are usually manageable.
Uses
Used mainly as an ornamental shrub for hedges, screens, and garden borders. Its attractive foliage and flowers add aesthetic value to landscapes.
Notes
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Repot young plants every 2-3 years if grown in containers. Avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root problems.