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Weeping Pittosporum

Pittosporum phillyreoidesfam. Pittosporaceae
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edibleshrubsedibleedible seednative australiaornamentaltree
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Pittosporum phillyreoides (Weeping Pittosporum) — botanical photograph
Pl. 608C — Pittosporum phillyreoides
Pittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoidesPittosporum phillyreoides
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Overview

Weeping Pittosporum (Pittosporum phillyreoides), belonging to the family Pittosporaceae, is a small tree native to southeastern and western Australia. Found in various habitats across New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia, this plant thrives in environments ranging from dry to moist areas. Known for its ornamental value due to its weeping habit, Weeping Pittosporum is often used in landscaping and garden design. Its drooping branches give it a graceful appearance that adds elegance to any setting. The tree has edible qualities as well; its seeds are consumable, making it a useful plant in certain contexts. It prefers full sun and grows best in light (sandy) or medium soil types, tolerating both dry and moist conditions. Weeping Pittosporum is adaptable to various environments and can grow up to 4.5 meters tall at a slow rate. It is hardy in zones 9-11, making it suitable for warmer climates. While the plant has no known medicinal uses, its utility extends to practical applications such as gum production, soap-making, and lumber. Propagation can be done through seed, allowing gardeners to cultivate this attractive tree in their landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Weeping Pittosporum?

Weeping Pittosporum (Pittosporum phillyreoides), belonging to the family Pittosporaceae, is a small tree native to southeastern and western Australia.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Weeping Pittosporum thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that can be light (sandy) or medium. It is drought-tolerant but will benefit from moist conditions. This plant grows best in hardiness zones 9-11, making it suitable for warmer climates. Propagation can be done through seed. With a height of 4.5 meters, it requires ample space to grow.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
9-11
Mature size
4.5 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Weeping Pittosporum for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple planting of Weeping Pittosporum to enjoy its attractive weeping habit and fragrant flowers.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Weeping Pittosporum plant, well-draining soil, and a container or garden bed.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when the weather is mild and there's no risk of frost.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure your soil is light (sandy) to medium, with good drainage. For containers, use a potting mix suitable for shrubs.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant the young plant into its permanent spot in the garden or a large container.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry periods. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter to encourage a bushy growth habit and remove any dead or damaged branches.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Gum
Other uses:GumSoapLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 6 native
Broader regions
native:New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Pittosporum phillyreoides (Weeping Pittosporum) — botanical photograph
Weeping Pittosporum (Pittosporum phillyreoides)
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Explore further

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About this entry

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