Pittosporum tenuifolium Variegatum - Kohuhu

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Variegatum', formerly known as argyrophyllum, is an evergreen bush with very dense and decorative foliage. Its green-tender leaves, marginated with cream-white, are slightly undulate and are inserted on thin black branches. Its habit depends only on the pruning it receives, but it is naturally compact and rounded.

The dark-red, almost black, flowers are particularly subtle. They only measure 1 cm (0.4 in), but they diffuse a slight honey scent at nightfall.

Pittosporums are native to the southern hemisphere, most of them come from New Caledonia, and they are not very hardy bushes. Some references give it hardiness up to -12° C (10.4° F), but the most common opinion is that it can tolerate temperatures down to -7° C (19.4° F).

It is used even by the seaside, especially for hedges, as it tolerates salty seaspray very well. In colder regions, plant it sheltered from the wind and well to the south. If you opt for pot cultivation, position it on a sunny terrace to promote flowering, and protect it from frost by bringing it indoors in a bright and not too hot room during winter. An unheated conservatory would be most suitable. However, be aware of diseases caused by confined spaces; it is prone to diseases such as powdery mildew.