Plant Library

Other Names:  Tawhiwhi, Pittosporum nigricans

Description:

An evergreen shrub or small tree with a dense multi-stemmed habit and bright green glossy foliage; small clusters of dark purple flowers in spring upon nearly black new stems; a shining landscape accent or screen

Ornamental Features

Kohuhu has attractive green evergreen foliage which emerges light green in spring on a tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. The glossy oval leaves are highly ornamental and remain green throughout the winter. It features subtle clusters of fragrant deep purple flowers at the ends of the branches in mid spring.

Landscape Attributes

Kohuhu is a dense multi-stemmed evergreen tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and can be pruned at anytime. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Kohuhu is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Mass Planting
• Hedges/Screening

Planting & Growing

Kohuhu will grow to be about 25 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 15 feet. It has a low canopy, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 40 years or more.

This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It does best in average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. It may require supplemental watering during periods of drought or extended heat. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This species is not originally from North America.