Kohuhu Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Wendle Channon' (m/v)
ABOUT
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Wendle Channon', commonly known as Kohuhu, is a cultivar with a striking visual appeal. It features small, oval leaves that have a glossy texture, creating a shimmering effect as they catch the light. The leaves often display a light green hue, which can have a variegated appearance, combining shades of creamy-white and green. This variegation contributes to its vibrant, decorative look, making it a popular choice for adding visual interest in a garden setting. The Kohuhu's branches are relatively slender and can develop a graceful, somewhat upright form. New growth may show a slightly darker color, contrasting nicely with the mature foliage. Occasionally, the plant may produce small, inconspicuous flowers that are deep purple, almost black, adding to its ornamental value. These flowers, though not overly showy, emit a subtle fragrance that can be a delightful addition to its surroundings. Being an evergreen shrub, the Kohuhu retains its foliage year-round, providing continuous color and texture. Its overall appearance is characterized by its elegant, yet robust, bushy growth habit, which allows it to serve well in various landscaping applications, such as hedging or as an accent plant. The combination of its dense foliage and attractive leaf variegation makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance the aesthetic of their garden with a plant that maintains its allure across seasons.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Pittosporaceae.
Synonyms
Tawhiwhi 'Wendle Channon', Kohuhu 'Wendle Channon', New Zealand Pittosporum 'Wendle Channon'.
Common names
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Wendle Channon'
ToxicityTo humans
Pittosporum, in general, is considered to be only mildly toxic to humans. If ingested, parts of the plant, particularly the seeds, may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness. It is advised to avoid consuming any parts of the plant. In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical attention promptly.
To pets
Pittosporum can be toxic to pets if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning in animals can include vomiting, diarrhea, and in some cases, an overall depressed condition. It is particularly risky for pets to consume the seeds of the plant. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the Pittosporum, you should contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters)
Spread
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8-10
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Ease of Maintenance: This cultivar of Kohuhu is known for its low maintenance requirements, making it an ideal choice for those with limited gardening time.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Wendle Channon can withstand periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Foliage Interest: The plant provides year-round foliage interest with its attractive silver-green leaves.
- Privacy Screen: With its dense growth habit, it can be used effectively as a hedge or privacy screen.
- Wind Resistance: It is sturdy and can tolerate windy conditions, making it suitable for coastal gardens or exposed sites.
- Adaptability: This Pittosporum adapts well to a range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained conditions.
- Ornamental Appeal: Its elegant shape and the potential for variegated foliage add ornamental value to any garden design.
- Wildlife Habitat: The dense foliage provides shelter for birds and beneficial insects.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Wendle Channon', commonly known as Kohuhu, can be used as a privacy screen due to its dense foliage, offering seclusion for gardens and yards.
- Kohuhu can serve as a windbreak in coastal areas, protecting other plants from harsh sea breezes and preventing soil erosion.
- The wood of Kohuhu is sometimes utilized in woodworking for making small, turned objects like spindles or decorative pieces due to its fine texture.
- It can be used in topiary and formal gardens; Kohuhu responds well to pruning and can be shaped into geometric forms or intricate designs.
- Kohuhu is often used as a container plant, providing an evergreen presence in patios, balconies, and terraces with its elegant foliage.
- The plant can be incorporated into sensory gardens; its leaves release a subtle fragrance when crushed, adding a sensory experience.
- Its decorative black stems are sometimes used in floral arrangements to add contrast and a unique structural element.
- Kohuhu can be used in theme gardens, such as a silver-foliaged plant theme, due to its silvery-grey leaves in certain variations.
- The dense habitat formed by Kohuhu can provide a natural habitat for birds, offering them shelter and nesting spots.
- In larger landscapes, Kohuhu can be used to create a mass planting effect for a dramatic visual impact with its textural foliage contrasting against other plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Kohuhu is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Kohuhu is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Pittosporum tenuifolium, also known as Kohuhu or Tawhiwhi, is known for its hardy nature and ability to thrive in various conditions, symbolizing the resilience and adaptability in facing life's challenges.
- Protection: With its dense foliage, Kohuhu is often used in hedges and borders, representing a natural barrier and symbolizing protection and setting boundaries.
- Peace: The evergreen nature of the Kohuhu plant, with its lush, green leaves year-round, provides a sense of calm and tranquility, symbolizing peace and serenity.
- Growth: Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Wendle Channon' is a fast-growing shrub, symbolizing the idea of rapid growth and progression in one's life.
- Secrets: In some cultures, dense plants like Kohuhu with hidden inner branches may symbolize secrecy or the unknown, as they can conceal things within their thick growth.
WaterKohuhu should be watered regularly during its growing season in spring and summer, typically once a week, providing the soil is well-draining. In winter, reduce watering to every two to three weeks, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Deep watering is preferred; for a medium-sized plant, use approximately 1 gallon of water to ensure it reaches the root zone. Keep an eye on the environmental conditions, as hot, dry weather may require more frequent watering, while cooler, cloudy days may require less.
LightKohuhu thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but it can also tolerate partial shade. Avoid deep shade locations, as this can lead to sparse foliage and a less dense growth habit.
TemperatureKohuhu is hardy and can tolerate a broad range of temperatures, typically withstanding lows to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit and highs up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, maintain a temperature range between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods as this can cause damage to the foliage and stems.
PruningPrune Kohuhu to maintain its shape and health, focusing on removing dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune is late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning once a year is usually sufficient, but light trimming can be done throughout the year to tidy up the appearance of the shrub.
CleaningAs needed
SoilKohuhu prefers a well-draining soil mix with compost and perlite, ideal pH is slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.5 to 7.5.
RepottingKohuhu should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current pot.
Humidity & MistingKohuhu thrives at moderate humidity levels, around 40-50%, not too dry or too moist.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure pot has drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, partial sun to shade.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cyclePittosporum tenuifolium 'Wendle Channon', commonly known as Kohuhu or New Zealand pittosporum, begins its life cycle with germination, which occurs when its small, sticky seeds, often dispersed by birds, find a suitable environment in well-draining soil. Following germination, the seedling grows into a young plant, developing a root system and foliage through photosynthesis. As the plant matures, it develops a woody stem and dense, evergreen foliage, characterized by small, oval, glossy green leaves with wavy margins. Kohuhu thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering, reaching maturity and starting to produce inconspicuous purple flowers, which are often scented, in late spring to summer. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers develop into seed capsules that eventually open to release seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, once Kohuhu reaches the end of its lifespan, which can be several decades, it will die back and decompose, providing nutrients back to the soil.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Wendle Channon,' commonly known as Kohuhu or Marble Queen, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood stem cuttings. This method is most successful when undertaken in late summer to early fall when the plant is still in active growth but the new stems have begun to mature. To propagate, a gardener should select a healthy, semi-woody section of stem about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long and strip the lower leaves to expose a few nodes. The base of the cutting should be dipped into a rooting hormone powder to increase the chances of successful root development. Afterwards, the prepared cutting is placed in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring at least one node is buried where roots can emerge. The pot should be kept in a warm, humid environment with indirect sunlight, and the soil must be kept moist but not soggy to encourage growth without causing rot. It can take several weeks to a few months for the cuttings to root sufficiently and be ready for transplanting.
