Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Irene Paterson'
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Name | Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Irene Paterson' |
| Common Name | Irene Paterson Kohuhu |
| Plant Type | Evergreen shrub |
| Height | 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters) |
| Spread | 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) |
| Foliage | Variegated, gray-green leaves with creamy-white margins |
| Flower Colour | Inconspicuous, purple-brown flowers in late spring |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to early summer |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil | Well-draining, fertile soil |
| Watering | Moderate, especially during dry periods |
| Maintenance | Low to moderate |
| Uses | Hedging, borders, coastal gardens |
| Notable Feature | Variegated foliage, salt-tolerant, deer resistant |
Planting Aspects
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Site Selection: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
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Soil Preparation: Well-draining, fertile soil is preferred.
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Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the nursery container.
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Spacing: Space plants about 4 to 6 feet apart.
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Watering: Water moderately, especially during dry periods.
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Mulching: Mulching can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
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Maintenance: Prune as needed to maintain the desired shape. 'Irene Paterson' is generally low-maintenance.
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Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth.
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Irene Paterson,' commonly known as Irene Paterson Kohuhu, is an evergreen shrub appreciated for its variegated foliage. The grey-green leaves are adorned with creamy-white margins, adding a touch of elegance to the garden. In late spring to early summer, it produces inconspicuous purple-brown flowers. This cultivar is salt-tolerant, making it suitable for coastal gardens, and it is also deer-resistant. 'Irene Paterson' is often used for hedging and in borders, bringing a decorative element to the landscape.