Pittosporum tobira aka Australian Laurel

Taxonomy

Pittosporum tobira, also known as Australian laurel, Japanese pittosporum, mock orange, and Japanese cheesewood, is a sweet-smelling flowering plant in the Pittosporaceae family. It is native to Japan (south of Kanto), China, Taiwan, and Korea, but has been naturalized in many other areas. This dense, mounding evergreen shrub is a popular ornamental plant in landscaping and floriculture. Its fragrant flowers make it a sought-after addition to gardens around the world. The name "Japanese Pittosporum tobira" is derived from the plant's resinous seeds and Japanese name of the fruit. Japanese Cheesewood, a rare houseplant, is a member of the Pittosporum genus and native to China and Japan. It thrives in direct light and well-draining soil, with regular watering and gentle, organic fertilizer during the growing season.

Common names

Australian Laurel, Japanese Cheesewood, Japanese Pittosporum

How to care for Australian Laurel

Difficulty

Australian Laurel requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Australian Laurel should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Australian Laurel loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Australian Laurel requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Australian Laurel will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Australian Laurel is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Australian Laurel’s native range is E. Asia - southern China, southern Japan, southern Korea.


More info:
Wikipedia