Pittosporum artense
Care, watering, light and tips for Pittosporum artense 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 Pittosporum artense
Pittosporum artense, also known as 'ofeo', is a small shrub or tree belonging to the Pittosporaceae family, endemic to New Zealand. It is characterized by its dense, glossy foliage, with dark green oval leaves often featuring an undulate margin. It makes an excellent choice for hedges, borders, or as a standalone specimen in coastal or temperate gardens, providing elegant texture and vibrant color year-round.
Native range
New Zealand
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade, thriving in well-drained, fertile soils, though it tolerates a range of conditions. Watering should be regular during dry spells, especially when the plant is young, but avoid waterlogging. It is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture. A common mistake is planting it in heavy, poorly drained soils, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Pittosporum artense
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, curled, drooping leaves. Stunted growth, no flowering.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. Prune dry/diseased branches. Move to partial shade if in full sun.
- What kills it
- Overwatering rotting roots or prolonged drought. Also extreme cold.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and the main trunk is healthy.