Pittosporum tenuifolium Green Elf - Kohuhu

The Pittosporum tenuifolium Green Elf is the variety of pittosporum that has the smallest leaves ever observed in the tenuifolium species. It forms a medium-sized bushy shrub with branches spreading in all directions, which tolerates pruning very well. The stems are particularly thin and of a beautiful black colour and highlight the very small evergreen leaves of a grayish green colour. The overall appearance is particularly delicate, reminiscent of certain ferns or houseplants (Adiantum, Muehlenbeckia). This plant of mild climate can also be brought indoors during winter in frost-prone climates.

The Pittosporum tenuifolium, or Pittosporum with small leaves, is a shrub of the Pittosporaceae family, a rather confidential botanical family in our gardens. It is mainly represented by the genus Pittosporum, of which P. tobira is the most well-known, as well as by a climbing plant sometimes encountered in the southern zone, Sollya heterophylla. Originating from dry regions located east of the New Zealand Alps, it is a vigorous and dense shrub, with an elegant habit and beautiful glossy green foliage. In May-June, its small dark flowers emit a delicious honey scent, especially at night. This plant of mild climate thrives in sunny positions, well-drained soil, in a dry garden, or in a large pot to be stored in cold climates and is suitable for coastal areas. The species tenuifolium is frequently used, especially as a hedge or standalone, and has given rise to numerous varieties, including purple or golden foliage ones. Pittosporums with small leaves are preferred plants for topiary art in the mildest areas of France, as they tolerate pruning very well.

'Green Elf' on its part is a magnificent variety with a recognizable aesthetic. Its thin, dark stems bear very small leaves (about 2 cm (0.8 in)) of a slightly grayish green colour, forming an extremely airy ensemble, as light as a gypsophila! This highly decorative habit can also be shaped as desired by pruning with shears. This 'Green Elf' variety, unpruned, reaches a height of 2.50 m or more under favorable conditions, with a spread of 1.50 m.

The Pittosporum tenuifolium Green Elf can be integrated into a geometric bed in a contemporary garden by giving it a particular shape, kept as a low or medium hedge, or its growth can be limited to keep it in a container for many years in cold climates. Because this tender plant does not tolerate severe cold, it will withstand -7°C, or even -10°C under very good conditions (absence of wind, well-drained soil, protection from a wall). Therefore, it should be overwintered in a sufficiently bright garage or in a conservatory if necessary. This pittosporum tolerates sea spray well, which allows it to be used without reservation in a free hedge, in a coastal garden. A graphic plant if ever there was one, Green Elf blends perfectly with modern architecture, whether in the ground or in a sleek designed container. Although its flowers are slightly scented but visually very discreet, its foliar aesthetics can be fully exploited. It will therefore harmonize perfectly with the regular bright green cushions formed by its cousin, Pittosporum tobira 'Nanum'. Purple foliage will also complement our grayish green-leaved Pittosporum very well, such as the superb Loropetalum chinense 'Black Pearl' with the additional advantage of a vibrant red flowering. The famous Lavender papillon with its airy flowers will create a poetic and decorative scene throughout the year.