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

To ensure optimal growth, the Australian Laurel prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
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