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Pittosporum cornifolium

5 from 3 customers

Perching Kohuhu, Tawhirikaro

Pittosporum cornifolium is a unique New Zealand native shrub admired for its graceful weeping habit and attractive glossy foliage. Often growing naturally as an epiphyte in forest environments, this evergreen plant develops slender arching stems that create a soft cascading appearance. Bright orange seed capsules add further interest during the fruiting season and attract native birds to the garden. Pittosporum cornifolium is ideal for sheltered gardens, native plantings, and feature container displays. Its unusual growth habit and elegant form make it a standout choice for adding texture and character to outdoor spaces.

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Suited to regions:Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:Shrubs
Height:2.00 m
Spread:1.00 m
Flowering time:Spring
Tolerances:Shade
Garden uses:Living areas, Pool areas
Garden styles:Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Modern, Native, Riparian
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asPerching Kohuhu, Tawhirikaro
Sku15069

How to grow Pittosporum cornifolium in NZ

Pittosporum cornifolium grows best in a sheltered position with partial shade and well drained soil rich in organic matter. This New Zealand native prefers protection from harsh afternoon sun and strong winds, particularly when young. Water regularly during establishment to maintain consistent soil moisture without becoming waterlogged. Applying mulch around the base helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Pittosporum cornifolium also performs well in containers and can be grown in hanging positions where its cascading stems can be fully appreciated. Frost protection may be beneficial in colder regions.

Pittosporum cornifolium care tips

Pittosporum cornifolium is relatively easy to care for once established in the right environment. Keep the soil lightly moist during dry periods, especially for container grown plants. Mulching around the base helps maintain healthy root conditions and supports steady growth. Light pruning can be carried out to shape the plant or remove any damaged growth. Feeding with a balanced fertiliser in spring will encourage healthy foliage and strong development. This plant benefits from sheltered growing conditions where humidity levels remain moderate and cold winds are limited.

Pittosporum cornifolium size, spacing, and growth rate

Pittosporum cornifolium typically grows to around 2 to 4 metres tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 to 3 metres, depending on growing conditions and support. Growth is moderate, with plants gradually developing long cascading stems and dense evergreen foliage. Space plants around 1.5 to 2 metres apart to allow adequate airflow and room for spreading growth. This species can also be trained onto supports or allowed to trail naturally from elevated positions. Its elegant form makes it well suited to feature planting and sheltered native garden settings.

Landscaping uses for Pittosporum cornifolium

Pittosporum cornifolium is an excellent choice for native gardens, woodland plantings, and sheltered landscape designs where texture and movement are desired. Its cascading growth habit makes it ideal for growing on banks, walls, raised planters, or beneath larger trees. This plant also performs well in containers and hanging displays where the arching stems can create a dramatic effect. The glossy foliage and colourful seed capsules add year round interest and help attract birds to the garden. Pittosporum cornifolium pairs beautifully with ferns and other New Zealand native plants.

Why buy Pittosporum cornifolium from The Plant Company?

The Plant Company supplies premium quality Pittosporum cornifolium plants that are grown for strong establishment and healthy performance in New Zealand gardens. Our experienced team provides expert advice to help customers choose the right native plants for their landscaping projects and growing conditions. We are committed to offering vigorous and healthy plants that provide lasting beauty and garden value. As NZ’s most trusted plant nursery, The Plant Company delivers excellent customer service, quality plants, and reliable nationwide delivery that makes buying native plants online simple and convenient.

What are the best growing conditions for Pittosporum cornifolium In NZ?

Pittosporum cornifolium grows best in NZ when planted in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site. We cannot emphasise enough the importance of good drainage as plants can become diseased and die if drainage is poor, they are waterlogged, or both. It will tolerate coastal environments, wind, and frost.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Pittosporum cornifolium (Perching Kohuhu)? We are here to help.

Reviews

5 from 3 customers
Tushka Glintmeyer - Wellington

Very happy with all the plants that arrived. All healthy and delivered in a timely manner.

Annie Whiteside - Taranaki

These are beautiful plants, they have tripled in size since being planted. Thank you!

Margaret Ross - Hawke's Bay

Healthy and lush, just what I wanted

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