Pittosporum Turneri
Contents
Description
Pittosporum Turneri, also known as Turners Pittosporum, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Pittosporum family. This plant is native to New Zealand and is widely grown in gardens and landscapes around the world. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide with a dense, bushy foliage that makes it an ideal hedge or screen plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus: | Pittosporum |
Appearance
Pittosporum Turneri has a dense, bushy foliage with glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and around 4 inches long. The leaves have a leathery texture and are arranged alternately on the stem. The plant produces small, fragrant flowers that are purple or maroon in color and have a sweet, spicy scent. The flowers bloom in the spring and summer and are followed by small, brown, woody capsules that contain the plant’s seeds.
Care Guide
Pittosporum Turneri is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve its fertility and drainage.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in leggy growth and reduced flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: Pittosporum Turneri is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pittosporum Turneri is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to look out for:
- Scale insects: These insects can infest the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Improve drainage and reduce watering to prevent this issue.
Habitat
Pittosporum Turneri is native to New Zealand, where it grows in forests and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate salt spray, making it a good choice for coastal gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pittosporum Turneri be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pittosporum Turneri can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should I prune my Pittosporum Turneri?
A: Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also prune to shape the plant or to control its size.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Pittosporum Turneri?
A: You can propagate Pittosporum Turneri from cuttings taken in the summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a warm, bright location.
Q: How tall does Pittosporum Turneri grow?
A: Pittosporum Turneri can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide.
Related Plants
- Pittosporum crassifolium
- Pittosporum eugenioides
- Pittosporum phillyreoides
- Pittosporum ralphii
References
- “Pittosporum Turneri.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c235.
- “Pittosporum Turneri.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/101904/Pittosporum-Turneri/Details.
- “Pittosporum Turneri (Turners Pittosporum).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/pittosporum-turneri-turners-pittosporum.
