Kohuhu Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tandara Gold' (v)
ABOUT
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tandara Gold', typically known as Kohuhu or Tawhiwhi, is a visually striking evergreen shrub with an elegant appearance. Its foliage is an eye-catching feature, composed of small, glossy, wavy leaves that exhibit vibrant shades of green and gold. These leaves often bear a light green color on their inner parts, surrounded by a golden-yellow margin, giving the plant a lovely variegated effect that adds a splash of brightness to garden spaces. This variety of Kohuhu sparks interest throughout the year, with its foliage maintaining its lustrous and colorful charm across all seasons. The leaves are densely packed on slender, dark stems that provide a striking contrast to the vivid hues of the foliage. Apart from its stunning foliage, the plant also produces small, subtle flowers that are usually dark red or maroon-colored. These tiny flowers are typically observed in the late spring or early summer and may go unnoticed due to their size, but they contribute to the plant's overall aesthetic by adding a delicate texture to the foliage display. The combination of its elegant leaves and contrasting dark stems makes this plant a popular choice for ornamental use in gardens, borders, or as a statement piece for its striking foliage and subtle floral display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Pittosporaceae.
Synonyms
Tandara Gold Kohuhu, Variegated Kohuhu, Variegated Pittosporum.
Common names
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tandara Gold' (v).
ToxicityTo humans
Pittosporum is generally considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. However, as with many plants, it is not advisable to ingest any part of Pittosporum as it may cause mild stomach upset or nausea. There is not a well-documented case of severe poisoning in humans from this plant, but it is prudent to avoid consuming any part of it.
To pets
Pittosporum can also be considered mildly toxic to pets, such as cats and dogs. If a pet ingests parts of the plant, they might experience vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. While not typically life-threatening, these symptoms can be distressing for the animal. If you suspect your pet has ingested a significant amount of Pittosporum, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Purple
Height
8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters)
Spread
5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8-11
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance: Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tandara Gold' is known for being easy to care for and requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Attractive Foliage: It features beautiful variegated leaves that add color and visual interest to gardens or landscapes.
- Versatile Planting: This plant can be used in a variety of ways, such as a specimen plant, hedge, or screen, making it adaptable to many garden designs.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, 'Tandara Gold' can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for climates with sporadic rainfall.
- Privacy: When used as a hedge or screen, it can provide privacy for your yard or garden due to its dense growth habit.
- Windbreak: The thick foliage and sturdy growth can act as a windbreak, protecting more delicate plants and garden areas.
- Fast Growing: This cultivar has a relatively fast growth rate, which allows for quicker establishment and results in the landscape.
- Pest Resistant: Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tandara Gold' tends to be resistant to many common pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- No Invasive Roots: Its non-invasive root system makes it a good choice for planting near pathways, buildings, and other structures without fear of damage.
- Seasonal Interest: The plant provides year-round interest but can also produce small, scented flowers that add seasonal charm to the environment.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural Art Supplies: Branches and leaves from the Pittosporum can be used to create natural inks or dyes for art projects.
- Photography Prop: Its striking gold and green foliage can provide a vibrant backdrop or be used as a prop in garden or botanical photography.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly consumed, the attractive leaves can be used as a garnish for plating dishes in high-end culinary presentations.
- Theme Gardens: The 'Tandara Gold' variety can be used to create a theme garden, such as a gold-hued garden, where all plants feature golden foliage.
- Plant Training: The flexible branches can be used to train and support other nearby climbing plants in the garden.
- Sound Barrier: When planted in dense rows, Pittosporum can act as a noise-reducing barrier in urban gardens.
- Floral Arrangements: The foliage can be used as filler in floral arrangements and bouquets to add volume and an exotic look.
- Windbreaks: Its dense growth habit makes it an excellent choice for planting as a windbreak in coastal or windy areas.
- Scented Gardens: Though subtle, Pittosporum can contribute to a scented garden with its light fragrance, particularly noticeable in the evening.
- Screenplays and Novels: Due to its striking appearance, the plant can be mentioned in creative writing to set a scene or describe a location with vivid imagery.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiKohuhu is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityKohuhu is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Pittosporum, also known as Kohuhu, is often associated with protection due to its dense and robust nature, which provides shelter and privacy in gardens.
- Peace: The plant's lush green foliage and subtle, sweet fragrance can evoke a sense of peace and tranquility in a garden setting.
- Perseverance: As an evergreen plant, Kohuhu symbolizes perseverance and endurance, representing the ability to withstand adverse conditions and maintain growth throughout the seasons.
- Harmony: With its balanced growth habit and pleasing aesthetic, Kohuhu is seen as a symbol of harmony and balance in the natural world.
WaterKohuhu prefers consistently moist soil but it is tolerant to some drought once established. Water young or newly planted Kohuhus with about 1.5 gallons per week, ensuring you water deeply rather than frequently to encourage deep root growth. During hot or dry periods, increase watering to 2 gallons per week. During the fall and winter months, reduce the amount of water to match natural rainfall and prevent soggy soil. Mature, established Kohuhus may only require supplemental watering during prolonged dry spells.
LightKohuhu thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. Provide a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, although it can handle light dappled shade as well. Avoid deep shade locations as this can impact the vibrancy of the foliage and overall health of the plant.
TemperatureKohuhu is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but ideal growing conditions are between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It is not suited for extreme cold and should be protected from harsh winter winds that can damage the foliage.
PruningKohuhu should be pruned to maintain shape and encourage dense foliage. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Light pruning can be done throughout the year to remove dead or crossing branches. Pruning every 2 to 3 years is usually sufficient unless the plant is being shaped for hedges or topiaries.
CleaningAs needed
SoilKohuhu 'Tandara Gold' prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. A mix containing equal parts loam, peat, and sharp sand or perlite is ideal to ensure good drainage and aeration while providing nutrients.
RepottingKohuhu 'Tandara Gold' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current container, which can be indicated by roots emerging from the drainage holes.
Humidity & MistingKohuhu 'Tandara Gold' thrives best in moderate humidity levels, typically around 40-50%, and does not require excessively high humidity to grow well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, protect from drafts.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA.
Life cycle'Tandara Gold' Pittosporum, a cultivar of Pittosporum tenuifolium, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in favorable conditions of warmth and moisture, producing a tiny seedling. Over time, the seedling develops a root system and foliage, growing into a young plant. With enough sunlight, water, and nutrients, the young plant matures, characterized by its glossy, variegated golden-green leaves, developing into a dense shrub. This evergreen perennial may produce small, often inconspicuous purple flowers that are fragrant, especially in late spring or early summer. If pollinated, these flowers can develop into seed capsules that, when ripe, split open to release seeds, thus continuing the cycle. Over the years, 'Tandara Gold' Pittosporum may require pruning to maintain its shape and size, and it eventually reaches the end of its life cycle when it can no longer sustain growth, typically due to old age or environmental stress factors.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tandara Gold', commonly known as Kohuhu or Tawhiwhi 'Tandara Gold', is best propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method involves taking cuttings from the plant during late summer to early fall, which provides ample time for the cutting to root before the colder weather sets in. The chosen cutting should be about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in length and have several leaves. One should remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to facilitate root growth. The cutting is then placed into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mixture. It is important to maintain a humid environment for the cutting, which can be achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator. With consistent moisture and warmth, the cutting should root within a few weeks, after which it can be gradually acclimatized to ambient conditions.
