Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb'
tawhiwhi 'Tom Thumb'
When grown in full sun, this compact, evergreen shrub has small, wavy, dark purple leaves and striking, dark grey or black young stems. With its distinctive rounded shape, and pretty leaves, which will turn green in shadier conditions, Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb' will give all-year foliage interest in a sunny, well-drained mixed border.
Use it as a punctuation point in a gravel garden, or team it with strappy phormiums for formal contrast. While it sometimes produces honey-scented, dark purple flowers in late spring and early summer, it's not a reliable flowerer.
Use it as a punctuation point in a gravel garden, or team it with strappy phormiums for formal contrast. While it sometimes produces honey-scented, dark purple flowers in late spring and early summer, it's not a reliable flowerer.
How to care for Pittosporum tenuifolium Tom Thumb:
Plant in well-drained soil in a sheltered position with full sun or partial shade. Pittosporum thrives in neutral to slightly acidic soil and benefits from protection against cold winds and severe frosts, particularly in colder regions.
Water regularly during the first year to help establish strong roots, then reduce watering once settled, as mature plants are drought-tolerant. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth.
Requires minimal pruning—lightly trim in mid-spring to thin or shape if needed. Mulch annually with well-rotted compost or manure to retain moisture and improve soil quality. In colder areas, consider protecting young plants with fleece during harsh winters.
Water regularly during the first year to help establish strong roots, then reduce watering once settled, as mature plants are drought-tolerant. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth.
Requires minimal pruning—lightly trim in mid-spring to thin or shape if needed. Mulch annually with well-rotted compost or manure to retain moisture and improve soil quality. In colder areas, consider protecting young plants with fleece during harsh winters.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
0.6m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
2 litre pot
£29.99
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(shipped within 2-3 working days)
10 litre pot | 30 - 40cm tall
£89.99
In stock
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