Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum

pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum is a sought-after evergreen shrub, prized for its striking deep purple-black foliage and graceful form. With its upright growth habit and year-round colour, this New Zealand native adds dramatic contrast and structure to gardens large and small. Whether you’re searching for a standout specimen, an excellent hedging plant, or a low-maintenance option for mixed borders, pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum is a versatile choice ideally suited to New Zealand conditions.

A Pittosporum 'Midget' plant in a garden.

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 flowers in spring. It grows with a rounded habit to about 80 cm tall and the same wide.

Buy Pittosporum 'Midget' (Dwarf Pittosporum)

From $22.01

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 80 cm

Spread: 80 cm

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy

Garden uses: Borders, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Patios, Pool areas, Specimen

Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native, Rock

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Variegata'

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Variegata' is an attractive evergreen shrub renowned for its beautifully variegated foliage and elegant growth habit. The grey green leaves edged with creamy white provide year round colour and brightness, making this variety a standout feature in gardens and landscapes.

Buy Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Variegata'

From $22.01

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 3.00 m

Spread: 2.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wet, Wind

Garden uses: Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native

Distinctive Features and Year-Round Interest

The allure of pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum lies in its vibrant, wavy-edged foliage. Young leaves emerge a rich, dark burgundy and mature to a glossy, near-black shade, creating a true showpiece in any landscape. In spring, this plant produces small, dark purple, honey-scented flowers that attract pollinators and add extra seasonal appeal. Its compact, upright habit makes it perfect for hedging, screening, or using as a feature plant.

Ideal Uses for Your Garden

pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum offers exceptional versatility in the garden. Its tidy nature ensures it works beautifully in both formal and informal settings, thriving in hedges, topiary, and shelterbelts. The dramatic foliage colour can be used to offset lighter or variegated plants for striking contrast. For those seeking smaller alternatives, consider Pittosporum Tom Thumb (Dwarf Pittosporum) or Pittosporum Elfin (Dwarf Pittosporum), both noted for their compact habits and bold hues. These dwarf forms are ideal for pots and smaller spaces.

Growing Conditions and Care

pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum is well suited to New Zealand’s climate, tolerating wind, coastal conditions, and periods of drought once established. Plant in full sun to part shade and well-drained soil for best colour and form. Regular trimming encourages bushy, dense growth, making this variety highly effective for privacy screening. Pittosporums are generally low-maintenance, resistant to most pests and diseases, and can handle frosty conditions.

To see other related selections, Pittosporum tenuifolium shares the same species and is a classic choice for larger applications. If you prefer a bit of variegation to brighten your garden, Pittosporum tenuifolium Variegata offers pretty cream- and green-edged leaves for extra colour play. For a rounded, neat look, Pittosporum Little Burger (Dwarf Pittosporum) is another excellent companion option.

Why Choose pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum?

With its rich, dark foliage and adaptability, pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum elevates garden design, adds texture, and provides year-round interest. Whether you’re establishing new shelter, seeking a unique accent shrub, or updating existing plantings, this cultivar blends beauty with resilience. Explore our selection to find the perfect pittosporum for your landscape.

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.

pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum

Pittosporum 'Midget' (Dwarf Pittosporum)

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Variegata'

Did you find what you are looking for?

Distinctive Features and Year-Round Interest

Ideal Uses for Your Garden

Growing Conditions and Care

Why Choose pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum?

Contact us

Explore Garden Inspiration

pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum

Pittosporum 'Midget' (Dwarf Pittosporum)

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Variegata'

Did you find what you are looking for?

Distinctive Features and Year-Round Interest

Ideal Uses for Your Garden

Growing Conditions and Care

Why Choose pittosporum tenuifolium purpureum?

Contact us

Explore Garden Inspiration

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