Pittosporum ralphii aka Ralph's Desertwillow

Pittosporum ralphii is an evergreen shrub from New Zealand's North Island. It belongs to the Pittosporaceae family. Ralph's desertwillow is one recorded common name. Its native range has a subtropical climate. It grows along forest edges and beside streams. These sites range from lowlands to the lower mountain slopes. Its recorded habitat lies between about 37.5° and 40° south.

In gardens, it reaches about 13 feet (4 metres) tall. Its spread is about 10 feet (3 metres). The plant keeps its leaves throughout the year. Plants For A Future records flowering in May. Each flower has both male and female organs. This shrub suits the sunny edge of a woodland garden. It also serves as a hedge where space allows.

Grow it in full sun, since it does not tolerate shade. It needs soil that drains well. Light loam is preferred, though sandy soil also suits it. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils. The soil can be dry or moist. Its tolerance of salt winds makes it useful near coasts. It can form a windbreak hedge in harsh coastal exposure. It also responds well to pruning. Plants can regrow after cuts back into old wood.

Cold limits where this shrub can grow outdoors. Plants For A Future gives a minimum near 23°F (−5°C). It lists USDA hardiness zones 8–11. In Britain, outdoor growing suits the milder parts of the country. Elsewhere, the source calls for greenhouse protection. Young plants may need shelter during their first winter outdoors. Plant them out late in spring after raising them under cover.

Seed and cuttings offer ways to raise new plants. Sow ripe seed in autumn, or use a warm greenhouse in late winter. Seed is reported to sprout readily. Move seedlings into separate pots once large enough to handle. Established seedlings can then move to a cold frame. Half-ripe cuttings taken in July or August have limited success. Ripe basal wood provides another cutting option in late autumn. No edible or medicinal uses are known to Plants For A Future. The plant contains saponins, which can harm people if eaten. Their poor absorption does not establish that the plant is safe to eat.