Variegated Japanese Mock Orange Pittosporum tobira 'Variegatum' (v)
ABOUT
The mock orange 'Variegatum' is a visually striking plant known for its variegated foliage. The leaves of the mock orange 'Variegatum' are evergreen and possess a unique appearance, featuring a mix of green and creamy-white or yellowish edges, creating a beautiful contrast. The leaves are leathery to the touch and often have a wave or slight curl at the edges, which adds texture and depth to the plant's overall look. One of the distinguishing characteristics of this variant of mock orange is the way the variegation adds a splash of lightness to the green canvas, leading to a fresh and bright visual impact, especially in areas dominated by green plants. This attractive foliage remains throughout the year, making it a consistent source of color in gardens or landscapes. The mock orange 'Variegatum', during its blooming period, produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers. The blooms are typically white and have a sweet aroma, which can add a layer of sensory appeal to its surroundings. These flowers may attract pollinators such as bees, adding another level of interaction in the garden. Overall, the mock orange 'Variegatum' is a beautiful plant with its distinct variegated leaves and fragrant white flowers, making it a favorite among gardeners who wish to add variety and year-round interest to their planting schemes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Pittosporaceae.
Synonyms
Variegated Japanese Pittosporum, Variegated Japanese Mock Orange, Variegated Australian Laurel, Variegated Japanese Cheesewood.
Common names
Pittosporum tobira 'Variegatum'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Japanese Cheesewood is not widely recognized as a highly toxic plant to humans. However, ingesting parts of this plant might still cause discomfort or a mild stomach upset. Serious toxicity is rare, and symptoms are not well documented, but as with any non-edible plant, it is prudent to avoid ingesting it and to keep it out of reach of children who might accidentally consume the leaves or berries.
To pets
In pets, the Japanese Cheesewood can be considered mildly toxic. If ingested by cats or dogs, it may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Though not typically life-threatening, consumption of this plant in pets should be avoided, and a veterinarian should be consulted if significant amounts have been ingested or if adverse symptoms appear.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
White
Height
5ft - 6ft (1.5m - 1.8m)
Spread
5ft - 6ft (1.5m - 1.8m)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8 - 11
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Variegated leaves provide ornamental interest throughout the year.
- Drought Tolerance: Adapted to survive with minimal water once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
- Salt Tolerance: Can endure salty conditions, which makes it a good choice for coastal landscapes.
- Pest Resistance: Generally resistant to many common pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Limited Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and care once established, making it an easy choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Privacy Screen: Dense growth habit makes it ideal for use as a hedge or privacy screen.
- Adaptable to Various Soils: Able to grow in a wide range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils.
- Compact Size: Naturally maintains a contained growth form, which is beneficial for small gardens or spaces.
- Wind Resistance: Sturdy and able to withstand windy conditions, making it a good choice for exposed sites.
- Long-Living: Has a long life span compared to many other ornamental plants, providing long-term landscaping benefits.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a source of fragrance for potpourris and scented products: Variegated Pittosporum's flowers give off a sweet fragrance that can be dried and used in potpourris or infused into candles and scented oils.
- For bonsai cultivation: Due to its compact growth and attractive foliage, Variegated Pittosporum can be pruned and trained into bonsai forms for decorative purposes.
- As a natural art medium: Creative individuals may use the leaves and branches of Variegated Pittosporum to compose natural art pieces or botanical prints.
- As a privacy screen in aquarium setups: When grown in containers, smaller specimens can be used in the background of large aquarium displays to provide a natural green backdrop.
- In crafting and floral arrangements: Variegated Pittosporum can be used in crafting for wreaths, garlands, or as filler foliage in floral arrangements due to its sturdy leaves and stems.
- As an educational tool in plant biology: Its variegated leaves can be used to teach about variegation in plants, chlorophyll distribution, and photosynthesis in educational settings.
- In sound barrier plantings: The dense growth habit of Variegated Pittosporum can help absorb sound, making it suitable for planting along noisy streets or highways to reduce sound pollution.
- As a natural play area boundary: When planted in a row, the Variegated Pittosporum can delineate the edges of a children's play area within a garden space, serving both as a visual cue and a soft barrier.
- For creating garden mazes or labyrinths: The dense foliage and ability to tolerate pruning make Variegated Pittosporum suitable for forming the walls of garden mazes or labyrinths.
- As a living sculpture: Through topiary art, Variegated Pittosporum can be clipped and shaped into various ornamental forms for display in gardens and public spaces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Variegated Pittosporum can be used in Feng Shui to create a balance of yin and yang energies with its variegated leaves, which represent a balance of different elements. It can be placed in areas where you want to encourage growth and vitality, such as the east for health or southeast for wealth. Its evergreen nature symbolizes longevity and resilience, making it appropriate for areas where you wish to foster steadiness and stability.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Variegated Pittosporum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Pittosporum, also known as Japanese Mock Orange, has a robust nature and can withstand various conditions, symbolizing the ability to endure and adapt to life's challenges.
- Peace: Its evergreen leaves and pleasant fragrance are often associated with tranquility and peace, offering a sense of calmness.
- Protection: In some cultures, the dense foliage is seen as a protective barrier, safeguarding against negative influences.
- Prosperity: The plant's lush growth and hardy characteristics represent growth and prosperity in one’s life.
WaterVariegated Pittosporum should be watered regularly after planting until it's established, which can take up to two years. Once established, it's quite drought-tolerant and requires less frequent watering. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, whether from rainfall or irrigation. During hot and dry periods, you may need to increase watering to every 5 to 7 days, and during cooler, wetter periods, reduce watering accordingly. It's important to avoid waterlogging, so ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and do not let standing water accumulate around the roots.
LightVariegated Pittosporum thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant would be where it receives at least six hours of sunlight a day. However, it can also tolerate and do well in light dappled shade. Avoid placing it in deep shade, as this can lead to reduced variegation and a less dense growth habit.
TemperatureVariegated Pittosporum performs best in a temperature range from about 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. While it can survive temporarily in colder temperatures down to around 10 degrees Fahrenheit, sustained exposure to such cold can damage the plant. Its ideal growing conditions are warm and temperate climates where frosts and freezes are rare.
PruningVariegated Pittosporum may be pruned to shape and maintain size as well as to remove damaged or diseased branches. The best time for pruning is in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This plant doesn't require frequent pruning; once a year is generally sufficient unless shaping is desired or to address specific issues like broken branches.
CleaningAs needed
SoilVariegated Mock Orange requires a well-draining soil mix with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A good blend consists of two parts peat moss, one part loam, and one part perlite or sand to promote drainage.
RepottingVariegated Mock Orange should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current pot, using fresh soil mix to replenish nutrients.
Humidity & MistingVariegated Mock Orange prefers moderate humidity levels, but is quite adaptable and can tolerate lower humidity found in most homes.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; water when top soil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil; partial sun; protect from harsh weather.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cyclePittosporum tobira 'Variegatum', commonly known as variegated mock orange or Japanese pittosporum, begins its life cycle as a seed, which after stratification or when conditions are right, germinates and develops into a seedling. As the seedling establishes itself, it grows into a young plant, developing a root system and foliage. Over time, the plant matures and reaches its adult form, which includes glossy, variegated leaves that are green with creamy white edges. Once mature, it produces small, fragrant flowers in the spring that are typically creamy white and eventually give way to seed capsules. These capsules, upon maturation, release seeds, continuing the cycle. Variegated mock orange is a slow-growing evergreen shrub, and with proper care, can live for many years, during which it may experience cycles of growth, flowering, and dormancy.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The Variegated Mock Orange, Pittosporum tobira 'Variegatum', is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to take these cuttings is in the late summer. To propagate, select a healthy, disease-free branch and cut a piece approximately 4 to 6 inches long. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage growth. The cutting should then be inserted into a well-draining soil mix, ensuring at least two sets of leaf nodes are below the surface. Maintain the soil's moisture without overwatering and provide a warm, humid environment for best results. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the plant can gradually be acclimatized to less humid conditions.
