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Description
Pittosporum Phillyraeoides, commonly known as the Willow Pittosporum, is a small evergreen tree that is native to southeastern Australia. It belongs to the family Pittosporaceae and is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers.The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a dense canopy that is round in shape. Its bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color. The leaves are elongated and narrow, measuring 8-12 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. They are dark green in color and have a glossy texture.The flowers of Pittosporum Phillyraeoides are small and white in color, measuring about 1 cm in diameter. They are produced in large clusters during spring and have a sweet, honey-like fragrance. The fruit of the tree is a small capsule that contains numerous small, black seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus | Pittosporum |
Appearance
Pittosporum Phillyraeoides has a dense, round canopy that is made up of narrow, elongated leaves. The leaves are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. The tree produces small, white flowers in large clusters during spring, which have a sweet, honey-like fragrance. The fruit of the tree is a small capsule that contains numerous small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Pittosporum Phillyraeoides is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some guidelines to help you ensure that your tree thrives:- Water: Pittosporum Phillyraeoides prefers well-drained soil, and it is important not to overwater it. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.- Sunlight: Pittosporum Phillyraeoides prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as well in low-light conditions.- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pittosporum Phillyraeoides is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to some common issues:- Scale insects: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes the leaves to develop small, dark spots. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and keeping the tree’s foliage dry.- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur in poorly-drained soil and causes the roots to rot. It can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-drained and not overwatering the tree.
Habitat
Pittosporum Phillyraeoides is native to southeastern Australia, where it can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and coastal areas. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pittosporum Phillyraeoides toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the tree’s leaves and seeds are toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: How often should I prune my Pittosporum Phillyraeoides?
A: Prune the tree once a year in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and promote new growth.
Q: Can Pittosporum Phillyraeoides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: Does Pittosporum Phillyraeoides attract wildlife?
A: The tree’s flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pittosporum Phillyraeoides:- Pittosporum Tobira- Pittosporum Undulatum- Pittosporum Tenuifolium- Pittosporum Eugenioides- Pittosporum Ferrugineum
References
– “Pittosporum Phillyraeoides.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). https://anpsa.org.au/p-phl.html- “Pittosporum Phillyraeoides – Willow Pittosporum.” Gardening With Angus. https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/pittosporum-phillyraeoides-willow-pittosporum/- “Pittosporum Phillyraeoides.” San Marcos Growers. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=2746
