This shrub to small tree has an upright greyish trunk with spreading branches that form around crown. It has leathery dark green spooned-shape leaves and the white to yellow fragrant tube-shaped flowers appear in terminal clusters during late spring.

Hardiness zones 8 to 10 

Pittosporum tobira is naturally found from Japan to China and Korea growing in woodlands on the coast and in the lower mountains. It grows in an open sunny to semi shaded position in  well drained organic rich moist fertile soil and is pH adaptable. It is drought, salt and mildly frost tolerant. 

The Japanese Mockorange is grown for its foliage and scented flowers. It is used as a foundation plant along borders for screening or  is trimmed to form a hedge. It is suitable for coastal and low mountain regions establishing in 3-5 years and is long lived. This shrub is also grown in patio tubs and is used in drifts under trees. The cut foliage is used in floral arrangements and the plant may be grown as a potted indoor specimen where it may be pruned up to form a bonsai-like tree. ID 3018

Pittosporum (pi-TOS-po-rum) tobira (toh-BEE-rah)

Pittosporaceae (pit-OS-paw-RAY-see-ee)