Also known as Black Matipo · Kohuhu · Matipo
Tawhiwhi (Pittosporum tenuifolium) is a graceful evergreen shrub native to New Zealand, known for its glossy, wavy-edged leaves and dark, wiry stems.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate full sun if watered adequately.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water when the topsoil is dry, avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-25°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. This plant prefers consistent moisture but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Reduce watering during winter months when growth slows.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This encourages bushier growth and helps maintain the desired shape. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Light pruning can also be done after flowering to deadhead spent blooms.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer or hardwood cuttings in autumn. Insert cuttings into a moist, well-draining potting mix. A rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Keep cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop.
Repot young plants annually in spring, and mature plants every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Ensure the drainage holes are clear.
Repotting provides fresh nutrients and room for root growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Tawhiwhi (Pittosporum tenuifolium)
Where Tawhiwhi (Pittosporum tenuifolium) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus | Pittosporum |
| Species | Pittosporum tenuifolium |
Similar in genus Pittosporum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
