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Description
Pittosporum Multiflorum, also known as Orange Thorn, is an evergreen shrub that can reach up to 20 feet in height. It belongs to the Pittosporum family and is native to South Africa. This plant is known for its fragrant flowers, which bloom from spring to summer. The flowers are small and cream-colored, with a sweet scent that attracts bees and other pollinators. The leaves of the Pittosporum Multiflorum are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus | Pittosporum |
Appearance
Pittosporum Multiflorum is a dense shrub with an upright growth habit. It can grow up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide. The leaves are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide, with a dark green color and a glossy surface. The flowers are small, cream-colored, and fragrant, and they bloom in clusters from spring to summer. The fruit of the Pittosporum Multiflorum is a small, brown capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Pittosporum Multiflorum is a relatively low-maintenance plant. Here are some care tips:- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Plant the Pittosporum Multiflorum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Pittosporum Multiflorum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pittosporum Multiflorum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Treat with insecticidal soap.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly draining soil. Make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in wet and humid conditions. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Pittosporum Multiflorum is native to South Africa, where it grows in coastal regions and forests. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pittosporum Multiflorum toxic?
A: No, Pittosporum Multiflorum is not toxic to humans or pets.
Q: Does Pittosporum Multiflorum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the fragrant flowers of Pittosporum Multiflorum attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I water Pittosporum Multiflorum?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can I grow Pittosporum Multiflorum in a container?
A: Yes, Pittosporum Multiflorum can be grown in a container as long as it has good drainage and is fertilized regularly.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pittosporum Multiflorum:- Pittosporum Crassifolium- Pittosporum Tobira- Pittosporum Undulatum- Pittosporum Eugenioides
References
– “Pittosporum Multiflorum.” The Spruce, https://www.thespruce.com/pittosporum-multiflorum-3269198.- “Pittosporum Multiflorum.” Plants of the World Online, http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:710308-1.
