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Description
Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb is a dwarf cultivar of Pittosporum Tenuifolium, a small evergreen tree native to New Zealand. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The leaves are small, glossy, and dark green, with wavy edges. The plant blooms in spring, producing small, fragrant, purple-black flowers that are followed by small, orange-red berries.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Apiales |
Family | Pittosporaceae |
Genus | Pittosporum |
Appearance
Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb is a compact, dense shrub with a rounded shape. The leaves are small, glossy, and dark green, with wavy edges. The plant blooms in spring, producing small, fragrant, purple-black flowers that are followed by small, orange-red berries. The foliage and flowers provide an attractive contrast to the dark stems.
Care Guide
Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize the plant in spring with a slow-release fertilizer. It is a sun-loving plant, but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb is native to New Zealand and is commonly used as a landscape plant in temperate regions around the world. It is a popular choice for hedges, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb poisonous?
A: No, Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb is not poisonous to humans or pets.
Q: How often should I water Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb?
A: Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Q: Can Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb can be grown in containers.
Q: What is the difference between Pittosporum Tenuifolium and Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb?
A: Pittosporum Tenuifolium is a small evergreen tree, while Pittosporum Tenuifolium Tom Thumb is a dwarf cultivar of the same species.
Related Plants
- Pittosporum Tobira
- Pittosporum Crassifolium
- Pittosporum Eugenioides
References
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Tom Thumb’. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp658
- RHS. (2021). Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Tom Thumb’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18762/pittosporum-tenuifolium/details
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Tom Thumb’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c490