Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Tom Thumb’ | Kohuhu
DESCRIPTION
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb' is a compact evergreen shrub that showcases dramatic, glossy chocolate-purple foliage throughout much of the year. In spring, the young shoots emerge bright green before maturing into their signature dark hue, offering a lovely color contrast during the growing season. Its small, honey-scented flowers, which appear in late spring, are an understated yet delightful feature, blending with the rich tones of the foliage.
This cultivar originates from New Zealand, where the species, known as kohuhu to the Maori people, is native to coastal and lower mountain forests. 'Tom Thumb' is a slow-growing selection that forms a neat, dome-shaped habit, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, containers, or as a contrasting element in mixed borders.
DESCRIPTION
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb' is a compact evergreen shrub that showcases dramatic, glossy chocolate-purple foliage throughout much of the year. In spring, the young shoots emerge bright green before maturing into their signature dark hue, offering a lovely color contrast during the growing season. Its small, honey-scented flowers, which appear in late spring, are an understated yet delightful feature, blending with the rich tones of the foliage.
This cultivar originates from New Zealand, where the species, known as kohuhu to the Maori people, is native to coastal and lower mountain forests. 'Tom Thumb' is a slow-growing selection that forms a neat, dome-shaped habit, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, containers, or as a contrasting element in mixed borders.
DESCRIPTION
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb' is a compact evergreen shrub that showcases dramatic, glossy chocolate-purple foliage throughout much of the year. In spring, the young shoots emerge bright green before maturing into their signature dark hue, offering a lovely color contrast during the growing season. Its small, honey-scented flowers, which appear in late spring, are an understated yet delightful feature, blending with the rich tones of the foliage.
This cultivar originates from New Zealand, where the species, known as kohuhu to the Maori people, is native to coastal and lower mountain forests. 'Tom Thumb' is a slow-growing selection that forms a neat, dome-shaped habit, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, containers, or as a contrasting element in mixed borders.
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Family: Pittosporaceae
Height: 3 to 4 feet
Width: 3 to 4 feet
Foliage color: Deep purple to burgundy, with chartreuse new growth in spring
Flower color: Small, nearly black or dark purple
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Water requirements: Regular
Maintenance: Low; requires occasional pruning to maintain shape
Growing zone: USDA zones 8 to 10
Wildlife attractors: Flowers may attract pollinators like bees
