Kohuhu (Pittosporum tenuifolium)
Care, watering, light and tips for Kohuhu on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Pittosporaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Kohuhu
Pittosporum tenuifolium, also known as thin-leaved pittosporum, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to New Zealand. It is characterized by its small, glossy dark green leaves, often with wavy margins and a dark stem that creates an attractive contrast. It is ideal for hedges, screens, or as a specimen plant in Mediterranean or coastal gardens, providing fine texture and an elegant appearance.
Native range
New Zealand
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and tolerates a wide range of well-drained soils, though it thrives best in fertile substrates. Watering should be moderate, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and more frequent in summer. Avoid waterlogging, as it is susceptible to root rot, and protect it from hard frosts when young. It tolerates pruning to maintain desired shape and size.
How to save a dying Kohuhu
- Warning signs
- Leaves dropping for no reason, dark or yellowish; dry branches.
- First aid
- Check watering, prune dry parts, move away from cold drafts or intense direct sun.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot or prolonged extreme dryness.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly and it hasn't lost more than 50% of its foliage.