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pittosporum variegata

Pittosporum variegata is a visually striking evergreen shrub that brings year-round colour to New Zealand gardens. Known for its beautiful cream and green foliage, pittosporum variegata is a popular choice for hedging, screening, and modern landscape designs. Its dense, bushy growth and tolerance for trimming make it a superb option for structured planting, while its variegated leaves catch the light and brighten up shady spots. Whether you’re designing a low-maintenance border or looking for a statement specimen, pittosporum variegata offers both versatility and style.

Pittosporum crassifolium 'variegata' plant with variegated leaves and purple flowers.

Pittosporum crassifolium 'variegata' (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.

Buy Pittosporum crassifolium 'variegata' (Variegated Karo)

From $22.01

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 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

Features and Growing Conditions

Pittosporum variegata typically features small, wavy-edged leaves edged in creamy white that remain evergreen throughout the year. Many varieties offer an upright and compact habit, making them suitable for both formal and informal gardens. Pittosporums thrive in full sun to part shade and tolerate a range of well-drained soils. They can handle coastal exposure, wind, and light frost, making them highly adaptable for a variety of New Zealand climates. Regular trimming will keep your plant dense and tidy, but pittosporum variegata is equally happy when left to grow naturally.

Popular Variegated Pittosporum Varieties

Gardeners are spoilt for choice with the range of variegated pittosporum cultivars available in New Zealand. If you love the classic contrast of green and cream, you might explore:

Pittosporum crassifolium 'variegata' (Variegated Karo): A robust shrub perfect for coastal gardens, offering leathery leaves with bold variegation.
Pittosporum eugenioides 'variegatum' (Variegated Tarata): Known for its lush, citrus-scented foliage and creamy margins, ideal for privacy screens.
Pittosporum tenuifolium Variegata: A refined option with delicate, silvery-green leaves edged in white, excellent for formal hedging.
Pittosporum Silver Pillar: A narrow, upright variety that adds a vertical accent to mixed borders.
Pittosporum Hole In One (Dwarf Pittosporum): The perfect choice for smaller gardens and pots, with compact growth and soft variegated foliage.

Design and Care Tips

Pittosporum variegata works beautifully in a range of garden styles, from coastal and native plantings to contemporary or cottage landscapes. Plant in groups for a luminous hedge, dot amongst evergreens for a pop of brightness, or grow in containers for patios and courtyards. Water regularly when young to establish strong roots, then enjoy their drought tolerance once mature. Apply mulch to retain soil moisture, and trim annually after flowering to keep your pittosporum variegata in optimal shape.