Evergreens noted for fragrance and foliage

Press, 11 October 1985, Page 8

Evergreens noted for fragrance and foliage

GARDENING

by

M.Lusty

There are about 160 species of Pittosporums, many of which are erroneously referred to as matipos. They are natives of Africa, Asia, Australasia, while the New Zealand species are endemic. Pittosporums are all evergreens, often noted for the fragrance of their blossom and the attractiveness of their foliage. However, their value, is also as shade and shelter trees, for hedging as specimen plants, and simply as part of the general planting scheme. The foliage is suitable for floral work, and this virtue is enhanced at the stage when the capsule splits open to reveal its seed.

Species and forms range from small shrubs to quite large trees, with a variety of leaf colour and range of hardiness from those which are frost tender to others which will withstand quite low temperatures. The generic name Pittosporum is derived from pitta meaning pitch, and spora meaning seed. This refers to the black, resinous coating which envelopes the seeds some of which almost look and handle as if they have been dipped in treacle. Once established, these plants tend to grow steadily, some quite quickly. However, unless given some attention after planting they may take time to adjust particularly in very open situations, despite their general hardiness. Pittosporums are suitable for coastal planting, and they will grow beneath established trees. Full sun or shade is tolerated, with almost equal facility and providing that the drainage is good, they will grown in moist conditions. Most of the Pittosporums

are amenable to trimming, some requiring more judicious attention in this respect than others. Hedges can be cut back twice a year, but for dense shelter cut preferably only annually. Big specimens are prone to die back if cut too hard into the old wood, although in time new growth may cover such regions. Regular clipping of specimens is desirable if they are to be retained at a certain height and in good shape. Large specimens require very careful handling to survive transplanting. It is usually not worth attempting to relocate those which have been established for many years. Disease rarely appears to be a problem with pittosporums. They rank extremely highly amongst generally grown trees and shrubs for their resistance to problems. Insect pests, however, can leave their mark on them. Chief among those which can cause damage is the leaf roller, followed by scales and the pittosporum physyllid. All seasons oil, white, or summer oil, applied right on to the wood within 5 the bush will control the scales provided that it is repeated at least once within three weeks of the initial spray. Acephate is recommended

to deal with the other pests. We are generally lucky in that most nurseries stock a good range of species as well as many of the older forms and most recent releases.

The lemon wood, Pittosporum eugenoides, is one of our most common and popular species. It is distinctive not only because of the lemon-like scent of its leaves, most apparent after a warm rain, as well as the scent of its flowers, but also because of the grey-black and white bark which gives its trunk the appearance of a silver birch.

There is a very fine variegated from called Peugenoides ‘Variegatum.’

P. undulatum is known variously as Native Daphne, Sweet Pittosporum and Victorian Laurel because ot its sweet scent and shiny, wavy margined, 100 mm leaves. Although this Australian native is compartively less hardy than New Zealand species, it still deserves to be used much more on the hills and other places which do not get more than light frosts.

Tasmania as well as several mainland states, provides us with P. bicolour commonly known as Cheesewood or Tallowwood. This species forms a fine shade tree, if rather stiff and columnar. The elliptic leaves with revolute margins are dull green above, and rusty brown underneath. The flowers are bell shaped predominantly yellow or red. It is eminently suitable for moister cooler locations.

Pittosporum crassifolium, the karo, is a distinctive, thick-leafed small tree

which chocolate brown, scented flowers which appear in terminal clu. cFo rs. This species has a re tation as a reliable hed( or shelter plant, while its natural existence clos to the coast gives it undi triable credentials as an lai choice for gardens near the sea. There is an excellent variegated form which has near grey coloured leaf margins. Pittosporum tenuifolium, as a variable species within itself, has given rise to many significant forms. Fragrance and colour of flower are its particular virtues.

The scent is particularly noticeable in the evening; the colour of the flowers is a very dark purple. One of the more notable forms of this genus is Patenuifolium “Wendell Channon,” of English origin a compact, creamy-yellow greyish-green leafed shrub. There is the small, almost globose. ~P. i Tenuifolium “Tom Thumb,” a real specimen plant with the added attraction of purple foliage which it has so far retained faithfully, apart from its spring growth which is considerably lighter in colour. There are various other species and forms which deserve attention. They can be seen and compared at many local nurseries.

Gardeners’ queries should be. sent directly to Mr N. Lusty, 56 Wayside Avenue, Christchurch 5. Samples should be separately wrapped in a plastic bag with air holes. Provide representative, good-sized samples, and your name and address. A nom-de-plume can be used for publication.