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Key characteristics

Family: Pittosporaceae
Height: 10 to 15 feet
Width: 8 to 12 feet
Flower color: Creamy white to pale yellow fragrant flowers
Foliage color: Glossy medium to dark green narrow oval leaves often lighter beneath
Bloom time: Spring; often April to May
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Low to average well drained soil
Maintenance: Low; prune lightly after flowering to shape plants and remove any damaged or crossing branches
Growing zone: USDA zones 7 to 9
Wildlife: Bees and other pollinating insects

Shrubs

Pittosporum heterophyllum

Chinese Pittosporum

Pittosporum heterophyllum produces clusters of small creamy white to pale yellow flowers in late spring, the blooms releasing a light, sweet fragrance as they open along the branches. The blossoms appear among glossy evergreen leaves with narrow oval shapes and deep green surfaces. Young foliage often emerges in softer green tones before maturing, creating gentle variation within the canopy and adding subtle depth to the plant's appearance.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Low to average well drained soil

Bloom time

Spring; often April to May

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Hedging & Privacy
Borders
Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Poppies · Indian hawthorn · Bee balm · Feather reed grass · Rock cress · Alpine mint bush

Design tip

Allow the glossy evergreen foliage to establish a strong, consistent backdrop, then rely on the creamy spring flowers to introduce a lighter seasonal layer. The narrow leaves create a finer texture than many broadleaf evergreens, helping large areas of foliage feel less visually heavy.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)