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Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’

5 from 2 customers

Dwarf Karo

Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ is a compact, evergreen shrub known for its dense, upright growth and attractive grey-green foliage. A hardy New Zealand native, it typically grows to around 1.5–2 metres tall, making it ideal for low hedges, borders, and coastal gardens. This variety thrives in full sun to partial shade and is highly tolerant of wind, salt spray, and dry conditions. Low-maintenance and naturally tidy, ‘Stephens Island’ is an excellent choice for structured, native-themed landscapes.

Pittosporum 'Stephens Island' green foliage.
Pittosporum 'Stephens Island' trees at 1.3 metres tall in 45 litre bags at a plant nursery.
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The average plant height is 30cm.
$22.01
The average plant height is 60cm.
$102.84
The average plant height is 70cm.
$366.25

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Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Shrubs
Height:1.75 m
Spread:3.00 m
Flowering time:Spring
Tolerances:Coastal, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses:Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles:Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Modern, Native, Rock
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asDwarf Karo
Sku10299

How to grow Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ in NZ

To grow Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ successfully in New Zealand, plant it in a sunny to partially shaded spot with well-drained soil. This hardy variety tolerates coastal conditions, wind, and dry periods, making it ideal for exposed or low-maintenance sites. Water regularly while establishing, then only during extended dry spells. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Apply a general-purpose fertiliser in spring, and lightly trim as needed to maintain its naturally compact, tidy form.

Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ hedge spacing

When used for hedging, Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ should be planted 40–50 cm apart. This spacing helps the plants form a dense, even barrier. Closer spacing promotes faster fill-in and encourages more upright growth. Wider spacing may result in a looser, more open hedge, which can be desirable in some informal designs.

Landscape Uses for Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’

Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ is perfect for low hedges, borders, and native garden designs. Its compact, upright form makes it ideal for structured plantings, screening, or defining pathways. It performs well in coastal landscapes due to its tolerance to salt and wind, and suits both formal and informal garden styles. This low-maintenance shrub is also effective for erosion control on exposed sites and pairs well with other New Zealand natives in mixed plantings.

Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ care tips

Care for Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island' by matching moisture and feeding to its growing season. Water deeply during dry weather while the roots are establishing. Apply a suitable fertiliser in spring and refresh the mulch to retain moisture. Remove damaged growth and trim lightly when necessary to maintain a balanced shape. Check new shoots for pests and keep competing weeds away from the root zone. Regular checks help you respond promptly to changing growing conditions.

Why buy Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ from The Plant Company?

Buy Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island' from The Plant Company, NZ's most trusted plant nursery. Choose from our extensive range and get practical advice to help match your plants to your local conditions. Our team makes online ordering straightforward, with careful packing and delivery throughout New Zealand. Whether you are planning mixed borders or refreshing an established display, we can help you select suitable plants. Explore the available options and take the next step towards a beautiful, rewarding planting project.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Pittosporum 'Stephens Island' (Dwarf Karo)? We are here to help.

We would like 3 x 40cm high of the Stephens Island plants - just checking that the smaller (2.5l) container has these as we'd have expected the larger pot (3.5l) to have had this size. Many thanks Gill Brackenbury

Yes, they will be at the height stated. Sometimes the larger grades can be shorter as they might still be a little younger but they will catch up and pass the smaller pot sizes.

Reviews

5 from 2 customers
Tehore Chadwick - Hawke's Bay

Great service, fast shipping and nice healthy plants

Francis Mason - Waikato

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