Pittosporum tobira ‘Variegatum’

The variegated form of Pittosporum tobira is slightly less hardy and considerably less vigorous (as with all variegated plants) than the type (Horti-speak for the non-variegated form) but also tends to be both earlier to flower and more prolific in flower which is no bad thing.

Pittosporum tobira's tough leathery leaves and remarkable drought resistance makes it particularly well suited to coastal regions. Suitable for sun or light shade. As with most drought resistant plants, its drought resistance is due to its ability to find water rather than to exist without it, therefore, if grown in a pot keep it well watered since it's completely dependent on you. The beautifully scented flowers last from around mid May to mid June and the hotter and sunnier the position, the more it will flower. Not bad as a pot plant as long as it's kept the same size by clipping. This is best done after flowering in late June. In mild London or coastal gardens it can be clipped into an excellent hedge.

Dense, variegated, shapely, evergreen free flowering shrub from Japan with masses of creamy-white, very fragrant flowers in early summer. A marvellous plant for sunny, sheltered gardens. 5ft after 10 years.

Place in sun or partial shade in any soil but the more sun the more flowers. Good in a container if well clipped. Like all Pittosporums, wind resistant. Produced by cuttings.

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate round the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted.