Pittosporum crassifolium (Karo)

Pittosporum crassifolium (Karo) Details

Pittosporum crassifolium, commonly known as Karo, is a NZ native tree is grown for its rapid growth rate and grey-green foliage. New foliage emerges grey and carries an attractive felt on both sides of the leaves. As the leaves enlarge the felting disappears and they mature to become glossy green. The leaves are complemented with sweetly scented, crimson flowers in spring which result in seed capsules that split open in autumn. The flowers and fruit are great for attracting birds and bees. Pittosporum crassifolium typically grows to 5 m tall and 4 m wide and can be contained with trimming as necessary. It grows best when planted in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site, though it is tolerant cool climates, wind, coastal conditions, periods of dry, and frost once established. Karo is ideal for shelter, screening, hedging, using as a backdrop for smaller plants, growing as a specimen, or including in revegetation plantings.