Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

Pittosporum crassifolium variegatum

Pittosporum crassifolium variegatum, commonly known as the variegated tarata or kohuhu, is a stunning evergreen shrub native to New Zealand. With its glossy, variegated green and cream leaves, this plant brings a splash of color and texture to any garden or landscape. Boasting a compact growth habit, Pittosporum crassifolium variegatum is perfect for hedges, borders, or as a standalone feature in your outdoor space. Its versatility and hardy nature make it a favorite among gardeners seeking both beauty and low maintenance.

Pittosporum crassifolium 'variegata' (Variegated Karo)

Variegated Karo

Pittosporum crassifolium variegata produces variegated leaves that are mid-green and surrounded by a cream-white edge. These are complemented by sweetly scented, crimson flowers. This shrub grows quickly with a conical shape to 3 m tall and 2 m wide.

Pittosporum crassifolium 'variegata' plant with variegated leaves and purple flowers.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Shrubs
  • Height:
    3.00 m
  • Spread:
    2.00 m
  • Flowering time:
    Spring
  • Tolerances:
    Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
  • Garden uses:
    Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
  • Garden styles:
    Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native
Pittosporum eugenioides tree with lush, dark green foliage and cream-coloured flowers.
Most Popular Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata)

Pittosporum eugenioides, commonly known as Tarata or Lemonwood, is a fast-growing native New Zealand tree valued for its glossy green leaves and...

From$15.04
Pittosporum 'Wrinkled Blue' speciment tree.
Most Popular Pittosporum 'Wrinkled Blue'

Pittosporum ‘Wrinkled Blue’ is an attractive, upright evergreen tree known for its distinctive blue-grey foliage and dense, columnar growth habit...

From$22.01
Pittosporum 'Limelight' variegated foliage.
Most Popular Pittosporum 'Limelight' (Kohuhu)

Pittosporum 'Limelight' is a NZ native shrub that features dark green leaves with a lime green centre, held densely on upright stems. This evergreen...

From$22.01
A Pittosporum 'Midget' plant in a garden.
Most Popular Pittosporum 'Midget' (Dwarf Pittosporum)

Pittosporum 'Midget' is a dwarf variety that features foliage made up of small, fresh green leaves. The foliage is complemented with small, purple...

From$22.01
Pittosporum 'Mountain Green' lush, green foliage.
Most Popular Pittosporum 'Mountain Green'

Pittosporum 'Mountain Green' is a robust New Zealand native shrub prized for its vibrant green foliage and dense growth. Perfect for creating privacy...

From$22.01
Pittosporum 'Stephens Island' green foliage.
Most Popular Pittosporum 'Stephens Island' (Dwarf Karo)

Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ is a compact, evergreen shrub known for its dense, upright growth and attractive grey-green foliage. A hardy New...

From$22.01
Corokia Silver Ghost plant with silver foliage.
Most Popular Corokia 'Silver Ghost'

Corokia 'Silver Ghost' is a striking evergreen New Zealand shrub admired for its fine silver grey foliage, distinctive branching, and naturally...

From$13.95
westringia-wynyabbie-highlight--4
Most Popular Westringia 'Wynyabbie Highlight'

Westringia 'Wynyabbie Highlight' is a striking evergreen shrub admired for its fine variegated green and cream foliage, naturally rounded habit, and...

From$18.95
Pieris 'Christmas Cheer' plants for sale.
Most Popular Pieris 'Christmas Cheer'

Pieris 'Christmas Cheer' is a highly regarded evergreen shrub known for its masses of pink flower buds that open to elegant white bell shaped blooms...

From$26.95
Weigela 'Apple Blossom' stunning pink flowers on a stem.
Most Popular Weigela 'Apple Blossom'

Weigela 'Apple Blossom' is a delightful deciduous shrub celebrated for its masses of soft blush pink flowers that fade to near white, creating an...

From$25.53
Pittosporum crassifolium 'variegata' (Variegated Karo)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring Pittosporum or Evergreen Shrubs.

Search Pittosporum crassifolium 'variegata' (Variegated Karo)

Characteristics of Pittosporum crassifolium variegatum

This lovely shrub typically reaches heights of around 2 to 3 meters, making it ideal for creating privacy screens or shaping garden beds. The variegated foliage not only adds visual interest but also provides excellent year-round appeal, especially in the context of New Zealand’s unique climate. During the spring, you can expect delicate yellowish flowers that are loved by bees and other pollinators, making it a wonderful choice for eco-friendly gardens.

Ideal Conditions for Growth

Pittosporum crassifolium variegatum thrives best in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. This adaptability allows it to flourish in various garden settings, from coastal areas to more protected inland sites. Regular watering during the establishment phase is essential, but once established, this hardy plant is drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of dry weather. For an inspiring array of options, consider pairing it with other native plants like Pittosporum eugenioides or Pittosporum tenuifolium to enhance your garden's biodiversity.

Practical Uses in Your Garden

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Pittosporum crassifolium variegatum serves practical purposes in landscaping. Its dense foliage forms an excellent privacy screen, making it an exceptional choice for garden boundaries. With trimming and maintenance, it can also be shaped into beautiful topiaries, adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor space. Furthermore, combining it with other flowering shrubs such as Viburnum bodnantense Dawn or Fuchsia Princess Kaja creates a lively habitat for birds and beneficial insects, enriching your garden’s ecosystem.

Maintenance Tips

To keep Pittosporum crassifolium variegatum in top shape, regular pruning is beneficial, especially after flowering, to encourage bushier growth. Applying a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can also enhance its vigor and flowering potential. It's important to keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and spider mites, although this resilient shrub is generally pest-resistant.

In summary, Pittosporum crassifolium variegatum is an impressive choice for any gardener looking to add an eye-catching and functional plant to their landscape. For further garden inspiration, explore our range of other beautiful shrubs, including Hebe pinguifolia Pagei or the unique Pittosporum Wrinkled Blue. Embrace the beauty of native New Zealand plants, and watch your garden thrive!


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.8

463 Google reviews