Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb'

Also Known As

Kohuhu

Plant type

shrub

size

H: 2'-4'
W: 3'

planting zones

8a-10b

More Options

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb' plant details

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb' is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with burgundy foliage. In spring and summer black, purple and red flowers emerge followed by black fruit. Features glossy texture. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and regular water. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in acidic, alkaline, lean and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb'

Plant type: shrub
Plant family: pittosporaceae
Foliage: evergreen burgundy
Mature size: 3 FT wide, 2 FT - 4 FT - tall
Flowers: black, purple and red blooms in spring and summer
Uses: winter interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb'

USDA Zones: 8a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: regular

Soil needs: acidic, alkaline, lean and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

One of the oldest selections with striking, maroon leaves on compact plants to about 5'. The dense mounds are deeply purple in winter with wonderfully contrasting, chartreuse, new growth in mid spring just when the cinnamon-scented, small, nearly black flowers appear. In cultivation for many years, though never common on the US West Coast, these should be much more available, especially for coastal gardens. Bright light and well-drained, fairly infertile soils with regular water. Upper USDA zone 8.

By: Cistus Nursery

A luscious black-leafed shrub worth every effort to make happy. This does great at the Visitor's Center at the Arboretum in Seattle in a sheltered spot so give it some love in a warm spot or in a mild garden. It is small enough to cover during an arctic blast. This plant is worth the effort.