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Description
Pittosporum Patulum is a species of evergreen shrub that belongs to the Pittosporum genus. It is native to New Zealand and is commonly known as the “Tarata” plant. The plant can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a spread of up to 5 meters. It has a rounded shape with a dense, bushy habit and produces small, fragrant flowers in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus | Pittosporum |
Appearance
The leaves of the Pittosporum Patulum are glossy and dark green, with a wavy margin and a pointed tip. The plant produces small, fragrant flowers that are creamy-white or pale yellow in color and have a sweet honey scent. The flowers are followed by small, round fruits that are green when young and turn brown as they mature. The bark of the plant is dark brown and rough, with deep grooves and fissures.
Care Guide
Pittosporum Patulum requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be fertilized in the spring and again in the fall with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, making it suitable for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pittosporum Patulum is susceptible to several common pests and diseases, including scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites, and leaf spot. Scale insects and mealybugs can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil, while spider mites can be controlled with a strong blast of water or by applying a miticide. Leaf spot can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Pittosporum Patulum is native to New Zealand and is commonly found in coastal forests and scrubland. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels. The plant is often used as an ornamental shrub in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Does Pittosporum Patulum require full sun or partial shade?
A: Pittosporum Patulum can thrive in both full sun and partial shade.
Q: What type of soil does Pittosporum Patulum prefer?
A: Pittosporum Patulum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Pittosporum Patulum?
A: Scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites, and leaf spot are common pests and diseases that affect Pittosporum Patulum.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pittosporum Patulum?
A: Pittosporum Patulum is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Related Plants
- Pittosporum Eugenoides
- Pittosporum Tenuifolium
- Pittosporum Tobira
- Pittosporum Undulatum
References
- “Pittosporum Patulum.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/pittosporum-patulum/
- “Pittosporum Patulum.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/95427/Pittosporum-patulum/Details
- “Pittosporum Patulum.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp259
