Pittosporum phillyreoides aka Willow Pittosporum

Pittosporum phillyreoides is an evergreen plant from Australia. It belongs to the Pittosporaceae family. Its common names include desert willow and narrow-leaved pittosporum. Gardeners also call it weeping pittosporum. Kew lists its life form as a tree. Plants For A Future describes it as a shrub. Its native habitat includes desert and dry shrubland. It grows inland, sometimes where conditions are very dry.

This slow-growing plant reaches about 15 feet [4.5 metres]. Its form may be rounded, vase-shaped, or weeping. It keeps its leaves throughout the year. White flowers appear during spring, from early to late season. The flowers contain both male and female organs. Wounded branches release gum. Its wood is very hard and has a close grain. Craftspeople use it for turned work and cabinet making.

Choose a sunny site with soil that drains well. Light sandy soil and medium loam both suit it. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline ground. It can grow in dry or moist soil. Once established, it can withstand drought. In gardens, it also accepts wetter conditions than its native habitat provides. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 9–11. It reports cold tolerance down to about 23°F [−5°C]. Outdoor plants can succeed in Cornwall. Elsewhere in Britain, greenhouse protection may be needed.

Garden uses include borders, containers, screens, and mass planting. It can also serve as a specimen or street tree. The source lists seaside planting among its landscape uses. It responds well to pruning, even into old wood. Growers can raise it from seed or cuttings. Sow ripe seed in autumn, or use a warm greenhouse in late winter. Seed tends to sprout well. Half-ripe cuttings give poor to fair results. Young plants may need shelter through their first outdoor winter.

Plants For A Future records edible seeds and branch gum. The seeds are very bitter and are dried and ground. These uses do not establish that all parts are safe. The plant contains saponins, which can harm people and fish. The source also records traditional medicinal uses for itching, eczema, and colds. It lists possible soap and bird-repellent uses for the saponins. These are reported uses, not evidence of safe treatment.