| Pittosporum | (Pittosporum sp.) | ^* |
| susceptible to aphids and scale; “Wheeler’s Dwarf” is a common small-leaved variety; P. phillyreoides may do better in desert. [Pittosporaceae; Apiales]
General Information: Pittosporum are evergreen shrubs or small trees. They have thick, glossy, dark gree, leathery leaves. Flowers are rather small and creamy white in color. At maturity they produce a leathery fruit called a capsule. They are quite tolerant of salt sprays and strong winds common along coastal regions. Family: Pittosporaceae Lighting: They will tolerate full sun and will thrive in shaded areas. Temperature: Will tolerate temperatures of twenty degrees F or less without noticeable injury. Watering: Adequate water to keep from drying out. Feeding: General purpose fertilizer. Pruning and wiring: The tree has no particular natural form making it a candidate for informal upright. Propagation: May be propagated by tip cuttings. Seeds are difficult to obtain and viability is usually poor. Grafting is useful. Repotting: The tree needs annual repotting and may be severely root pruned. The soil should be well draining. Pests and diseases: Cottony-cushion scale. Spray with agricultural oil. Species suitable for bonsai: Bibliography: Brevard County Extension Office, Cocoa FL. Compiled by Thomas L. Zane |