Tawhiwhi 'Warnham Gold' Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Warnham Gold' (m)

Water

Kohuhu should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. A depth of watering that moistens the soil down to about 6 inches should be sufficient. It's key to avoid waterlogging, so ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. During the growing season, watering once a week with approximately half a gallon per plant should be adequate, but always check soil moisture as environmental conditions may alter water needs. In winter, reduce watering frequency to every two to three weeks or as needed, depending on the climate.

Light

Kohuhu thrives in full sun to partial shade, so it is best placed in a location where it receives at least four hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant will also benefit from protection from the harsh afternoon sun in very hot climates, so a spot that provides some afternoon dappled shade would be ideal.

Temperature

Kohuhu plants prefer a mild climate and can generally survive in temperatures ranging from 20°F to 100°F, making it adaptable to many environments. The ideal temperature range for vibrant growth is between 50°F and 75°F. Protecting the plant from frost and extreme heat is important, as temperatures outside the mentioned ranges can damage the foliage or even be fatal.

Pruning

Pruning Kohuhu is essential to maintain the desired shape and to encourage bushier growth. The best time for pruning is in the spring, after the last frost. Prune lightly to moderately, but avoid heavy pruning, which can be stressful for the plant. Pruning once a year is usually sufficient, but it can be done twice a year if shaping is necessary.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Kohuhu prefers well-draining soil with a mix of two parts loam, one part sand or perlite, and one part peat or compost to maintain slight acidity. Desired soil pH should range from 5.5 to 6.5 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Kohuhu should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time to repot to minimize stress on the plant.

Humidity & Misting

Kohuhu thrives in moderate humidity levels, typically between 40% to 60%. Avoid excessively dry air which may cause leaf edges to brown.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and maintain moderate humidity.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, protect from strong winds and extreme cold.

• Hardiness zone

  8-10 USDA

Life cycle

Kohuhu 'Warnham Gold' begins its life cycle with seed germination, given appropriate conditions of warmth and moisture. After germination, the seedling emerges and develops its first true leaves, entering the juvenile stage where it establishes a root system and initial foliage. As it matures into the vegetative stage, 'Warnham Gold' experiences rapid growth and the development of its distinctive golden-green leaves and branching structure. Upon reaching maturity, the plant will flower, typically bearing small, purple, honey-scented blooms that are more noticeable for their fragrance than their visual impact. Following pollination, often by insects, the flowers form seed capsules which eventually release seeds, thus completing the reproductive cycle. The plant then continues to grow and, if conditions allow, will enter successive flowering and seeding phases annually throughout its life span, which, for well-cared-for specimens, can be several decades long.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Warnham Gold', commonly known as Kohuhu or Tawhiwhi, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique is often carried out in late summer to early fall. To propagate using this method, a gardener would take cuttings of around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) from the current year's growth, ensuring that each cutting has a few leaves. The lower leaves of the cuttings are removed and the base of the cutting is dipped in a rooting hormone to enhance root development. The prepared cuttings are then inserted into a well-draining propagation medium, such as a mix of peat and perlite, kept moist, and placed under indirect light. Providing bottom heat can improve success rates. Cuttings can take several weeks to root, after which they can be potted on into individual containers.