Pittosporum Tenuifolium Victoria, commonly known as Victoria Pittosporum, is a small evergreen tree or shrub that belongs to the Pittosporum family. It is native to New Zealand and is often used as a hedge or screen plant due to its dense foliage and attractive appearance. The plant has a slow to moderate growth rate and can grow up to 10-15 feet tall with a spread of 6-8 feet.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus | Pittosporum |
Appearance
The leaves of Pittosporum Tenuifolium Victoria are glossy and dark green in color. The leaves are narrow and elliptic, measuring 1-4 inches in length and 0.25-0.5 inches in width. The plant produces small, fragrant, maroon flowers in spring that are followed by black seed capsules. The bark of the plant is gray and smooth when young, but gradually becomes rough and fissured with age. The overall appearance of the plant is dense and compact.
Care Guide
Pittosporum Tenuifolium Victoria is a low maintenance plant, but it still requires proper care to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Pittosporum Tenuifolium Victoria is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pittosporum Tenuifolium Victoria is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common problems:
- Scale insects: These insects can suck sap from the plant and cause yellowing of leaves. Use horticultural oil to control them.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot. Avoid overwatering and improve drainage.
- Leaf spots: Fungal leaf spots can occur in humid conditions. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Pittosporum Tenuifolium Victoria is native to New Zealand, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, shrublands, and coastal regions. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and climate conditions, including high winds and salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pittosporum Tenuifolium Victoria a fast-growing plant?
A: No, it has a slow to moderate growth rate.
Q: Does Pittosporum Tenuifolium Victoria require pruning?
A: Yes, it benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Can Pittosporum Tenuifolium Victoria be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: What is the best time to plant Pittosporum Tenuifolium Victoria?
A: The best time to plant is in spring or fall when the weather is mild.
Related Plants
- Pittosporum Tobira
- Pittosporum Crassifolium
- Pittosporum Undulatum
- Pittosporum Eugenioides
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/pittosporum-tenuifolium-victoria
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/pittosporum/growing-pittosporum-tenuifolium.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/20694/Pittosporum-tenuifolium-Victoria/Details
