fast growing pittosporum

Why Choose Fast Growing Pittosporum for Your Garden?

Pittosporum species grow at impressive rates compared to many other hedging and screening plants. In the right conditions, young plants can reach 1 metre or more per year, speeding up the process of establishing boundaries or shelterbelts. Their dense, fine-textured foliage not only provides privacy, but also adds year-round structure and greenery. Most fast growing pittosporum are tolerant to wind, salt spray, and mild frosts, making them especially suited to New Zealand’s coastal and rural environments.

Planting pittosporum as a hedge or screen is also a sustainable choice—their roots help hold soil, their leaves filter dust, and native varieties attract birds into your garden. Plus, maintenance is simple: regular trimming keeps them tidy and encourages lush growth.

Popular Fast Growing Pittosporum Varieties

Several pittosporum varieties stand out for their rapid growth and suitability for hedging and screening:

• Pittosporum 'Silver Sheen': Renowned for its airy, silvery foliage and exceptional growth rate, Silver Sheen brings a modern look to garden screens and hedges. This variety is prized for its ability to quickly fill spaces with soft, shimmering leaves.

• Pittosporum tenuifolium: A classic kiwi native, tenuifolium is valued for its upright habit and elegant dark-green leaves with fine black stems. It recovers quickly from trimming and is hardier than many alternatives, making it a dependable option.

• Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata): With broad, glossy leaves and a rapid growth rate, Tarata forms thick hedges in no time. Its lemon-scented foliage adds an extra sensory element to your garden.

• Pittosporum eugenioides 'variegatum' (Variegated Tarata): For those wanting a splash of colour, Variegated Tarata grows just as fast, offering striking white-edged leaves and the same hardy temperament.

• Pittosporum tobira (Australian Laurel): While not native, this species is equally well-suited to fast screening and hedging, with lush, dark-green leaves and compact branching.

Tips for Planting and Caring for Fast Growing Pittosporum

To get the best results from your fast growing pittosporum, choose a sunny or partly shaded site with well-drained soil. Water regularly while plants establish, then reduce frequency as they mature. For thick, tidy hedges, space plants at 1–1.5 metre intervals and trim lightly in spring and autumn. Mulching helps preserve moisture and keeps roots cool. Fast growing pittosporum respond well to pruning—simply shape as needed to encourage denser growth.

Transform Your Landscape with Fast Growing Pittosporum

Fast growing pittosporum deliver outstanding performance in New Zealand gardens. They offer privacy, shelter, beauty, and resilience—all in one easy-care package. Whether you crave the airy sheen of Pittosporum 'Silver Sheen', the classic look of Pittosporum tenuifolium, or the vibrant leaves of Pittosporum eugenioides 'variegatum' (Variegated Tarata), your garden will benefit from their rapid growth and versatility.