Pittosporum
Pittosporum ellipticum
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Pittosporum ellipticum is a shrub to small tree with glossy elliptic leaves and fragrant spring flowers, followed by sticky seed capsules typical of the genus. It suits mixed native plantings and shelter belts in mild districts.
Identification
Leaves elliptic, opposite or sub-opposite, often glossy; small fragrant flowers in clusters; capsules splitting to reveal sticky seeds. Distinguish from related species by leaf shape and venation.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Pittosporum ellipticum |
|---|---|
| Family | Pittosporaceae |
| Form | Shrub to small tree |
| Height | 2-8 m (varies with site) |
| Spread | 40-120 cm across |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; free-draining soils |
| Light | Full sun |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate |
| Salt Tolerance | Low to moderate |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
Climate Suitability
Content for Pittosporum ellipticum ( Pittosporum ellipticum ).
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Suitable |
| Auckland | Suitable |
| Hamilton | Suitable |
| Tauranga | Suitable |
| Rotorua | Suitable |
| Gisborne | Suitable |
| New Plymouth | Suitable |
| Napier | Suitable |
| Whanganui | Suitable |
| Palmerston North | Suitable |
| Wellington | Suitable |
| Nelson | Suitable |
| Christchurch | Suitable |
| Dunedin | Suitable |
| Invercargill | Suitable |
Habitat
Natural Distribution
North Island endemic, most often associated with kauri (Agathis australis) forests from Te Paki south to Mt Pirongia in the west and to the Karangahake and Waioeka Gorges in the east. Grows on ridgelines, slip scars and in secondary regrowth within cut‑over kauri forest, and also as understory in tānekaha and kōhai/ kāmahi dominated forest. Prefers relatively open sites such as track and roadside margins.
Conservation Status
Current Threats and Protection
Not Threatened nationally. Local risks include kauri forest decline, weed invasion and browsing of regenerating cohorts along edges. Retaining canopy processes, preventing soil movement in kauri zones, and controlling weeds support recruitment.
How to Grow
Cultivation Requirements
Full sun to part shade; fertile, free-draining soils. Water during establishment; prune lightly after flowering. Avoid heavy frosts in exposed sites.
Planting Guide
Best Planting Practices
Plant in sun or bright shade in free‑draining, humus‑rich soils. Shelter from hard frosts when young; water regularly through the first two summers. Mulch to conserve moisture and moderate root temperatures. Tip‑prune after flowering to encourage a dense canopy.
Ecology
Fragrant flowers offer nectar to invertebrates; sticky capsules and seeds contribute food resources for fauna. As a mid‑storey small tree it adds evergreen structure and filters wind on forest margins and in restoration plantings.
Uses
Traditional and Modern Applications
Shelter, screening and evergreen backdrop in mild districts. Useful in kauri‑edge and tānekaha/kāmahi forest themes, or as a scented feature near paths where flowers can be appreciated.
Landscaping Ideas
Pair with Phormium, Coprosma and Pseudopanax for layered, evergreen screens. Its glossy leaves contrast well with fine grasses and fern textures beneath kauri or tānekaha.
Seasonal Care
Year-Round Maintenance
Spring: check ties, top‑dress and mulch; tip‑prune lightly after flowering. Summer: water deeply but infrequently to drive roots; monitor for heat stress in exposed sites. Autumn: refresh mulch and remove damaged wood. Winter: protect from severe frosts when young.
Pruning
Pruning Techniques
Light shaping prune to maintain form; avoid hard renovation cuts in hot or very cold periods. Selective thinning every few years preserves layered structure and airflow.
How to Grow Pittosporum
From Seed
Propagation of Pittosporum ellipticum from fresh seed is a common method. Collect seeds from ripe capsules in late autumn or early winter, once they begin to split open. Clean the sticky pulp from the seeds thoroughly, as this can inhibit germination. Sow fresh, cleaned seeds in spring onto a well-drained seed-raising mix, lightly covering them. Maintain consistent moisture and provide warm temperatures (around 18-25°C or 65-77°F) for optimal germination. Germination typically occurs in spring and can be quite rapid once conditions are met. Once seedlings are robust enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots and grow them on in a sheltered, bright location until strong enough for planting out.
From Cuttings
Pittosporum ellipticum can be successfully propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer to early autumn. Select healthy, firm stem segments, about 10-15 cm long, from the current season's growth. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Insert the cuttings into a free-draining rooting medium such as a mix of sand and perlite. Provide high humidity around the cuttings, either by placing them in a propagation chamber or covering them with a plastic bag, and ensure consistent moisture in the rooting medium. Keep in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. Rooting typically occurs readily within 8-12 weeks. Once rooted, gradually acclimatize plants to ambient conditions before potting up.
General Cultivation
Pittosporum ellipticum is a versatile shrub to small tree well-suited for mixed native plantings and shelter belts in mild districts. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers fertile, free-draining soils. Water regularly during establishment; thereafter, only during extended dry periods. Avoid heavy frosts, especially in exposed sites, and provide shelter when young. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain form and encourage a dense canopy. Mulch to conserve moisture and moderate root temperatures. Light shaping prune helps maintain its natural form; avoid hard renovation cuts in hot or very cold periods. This species is generally resilient and performs well with minimal intervention.
Pests and Diseases
Common Problems and Solutions
Generally resilient. Poor airflow can encourage scale and sooty mould; thin lightly and wash foliage if needed. Ensure drainage to avoid winter root stress; protect young plants from browsing in open sites.
Cultural Significance
Traditional Uses and Values
Part of northern forest communities including kauri margins; planting eco‑sourced stock in restoration supports whakapapa and the integrity of regional forest mosaics.
Bonus Tip
Expert Growing Advice
To maximize the fragrant spring bloom and ensure a tidy form, locate Pittosporum ellipticum in a sheltered, sunny position with free-draining soil. Provide consistent moisture during its establishment phase, but thereafter, it thrives with minimal intervention, reflecting its robust adaptation to New Zealand's varied conditions.
