Botanical name:

Pittosporum obcordatum

Common name(s):

Heart-leaved kōhūhū

About:

A rare and remarkable plant found in the wild exhibits a spasmodic distribution across both islands. When cultivated, it develops into a small columnar tree, typically reaching a height of approximately 4m, with interlaced branches that create an interesting silhouette and very small rounded leaves that add to its unique charm. The young stems are particularly striking, displaying an attractive tan colour that further enhances the plant's overall aesthetic appeal.

Natural habitat:

A species of primarily eastern lowland alluvial forest, favouring sites prone to summer drought being otherwise waterlogged, and frost-prone during winter.

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade, Drought & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand. Known from the North and South Islands. In the North Island it is known from Awanui south to the Wairarapa, with a primarily easterly distribution. In the South Island now known from several sites in the Catlins west to Lake Manapouri. About 40 plants were recently (2012) rediscovered by Melissa Hutchison on Banks Peninsula, after not being seen there for 170 years.

Height: 5 - 8m though much smaller in cultivation

Flowering:

Late September to early December with reddish pink to yellow coloured flowers

Fruiting:

December to May but long persistent, such that fruit on well established plants may be found at anytime of the year.

Uses:

Bird attractant, Bee food, Forests & Riparian plantings

How to grow:
Easily grown from fresh seed, Semi-hardwood cuttings though slow to strike and easily rooted. This species will tolerate a wide range of conditions but it does best in a moist, fertile soil in semi-shaded. It has an attractive columnar growth form, and the small flowers are produced in profusion and are pleasantly scented, particularly at night.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed up and even out germination time