An evergreen plant that forms a very appealing rounded shrub in moist but well-drained soils in full sun or shade. This plant has gorgeous purple and green leaves with an attractive shine. Grows to 1m tall and 60cm across. The flowers are insignificant to the human eye but attractive to nighttime pollinators.
The mature plant in our photos is growing in full shade. In full sun, this plant will have deep purple mature leaves with bright green young leaves growing from the many shoot tips.
It does very well in the mild Bristol climate but if we have a very cold snap then it is worth putting a mulch around the plant's base.
Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb'
Position: Flower border
Flowering months: May_/ Jun
Light: Full sun / Mix of sun and shade / Dappled shade / Full Shade
Soil: Clay / Loam / Chalk / Sand
Tested in our local soil (t.i.o.l.s.): Yes (but avoid heavy clay)
Drainage: Well drained / Moist but well-drained (never waterlogged)
Life cycle: Perennial (lives for many years)
Hardiness: Fully hardy (in Bristol winters)
Over winter: Stays evergreen
Drought tolerant: Yes, once established