Kōhūhū (Pittosporum tenuifolium)

Also known as: Black matipo, Thin leaved pittosporum

*Pittosporum tenuifolium*, commonly known as kōhūhū or black matipo, is a plant species unique to New Zealand. It is notable for its night-time fragrant flowers. The name "tenuifolium" translates to "slender leaves." Kōhūhū typically grows in coastal and lower mountain forests. The plant is known to attract various insects and supports several fungal pathogens. Additionally, the indigenous Māori people traditionally extract its oil for its aromatic properties.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Kōhūhū

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

4 m to 8 m

Spread

2.5 m to 4 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 cm

Flower Color

Purple

Images of Kōhūhū

Quickly Identify Kōhūhū

Dark, almost black new stems

Glossy, medium green oval leaves with slightly wavy edge

Sweet-scented dark purple flowers in compact clusters

Small orange fruits after blooming period

Tolerant of seaside conditions and temperatures down to 15-20 °F ( -9 - -6 °C)

Scientific Classification of Kōhūhū

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Apiales

Family

Cheesewood

Genus

Cheesewoods

Species

Kōhūhū

Planting and Growing of Kōhūhū

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Kōhūhū?

When watering Pittosporum tenuifolium, aim for about 500 milliliters per session, ensuring that the soil is moistened evenly throughout. It's important to let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. This balance keeps the plant hydrated but not waterlogged, which promotes healthy growth.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Kōhūhū? ›

What should I do if my Kōhūhū is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Kōhūhū? ›

How to save an overwatered Kōhūhū? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Kōhūhū?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Partial sun conditions are ideal for Pittosporum tenuifolium. This setting ensures balanced energy input for photosynthesis without overwhelming the plant, supporting lush foliage and vigorous growth.

What is the ideal sunlight for Pittosporum tenuifolium? ›

How can I achieve ideal lighting for the plant? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting provide? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Kōhūhū?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Pittosporum tenuifolium is between 60°F and 75°F. Within this range, the plant can effectively photosynthesize and maintain healthy growth. This temperature range supports optimal enzymatic activity and cellular functions necessary for the plant's overall health and resilience against stress.

What Soil is Best for Kōhūhū?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Pittosporum tenuifolium flourishes in well-drained soil, which prevents root rot by allowing excess moisture to escape. Proper drainage ensures healthy root systems, promoting strong growth and vibrant foliage. This plant prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil pH levels between 6.5 and 7.5. Such pH levels enhance nutrient availability, promoting optimal plant growth and development. While Pittosporum tenuifolium isn't overly demanding in terms of fertility, moderate nutrient levels contribute to robust foliage and flowering. Adequate nutrients support plant health and resilience against pests and diseases. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Kōhūhū?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Pittosporum tenuifolium, it’s crucial to avoid over-fertilization. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is recommended for optimal growth. Apply liquid fertilizer at a concentration of 1 tablespoon per gallon of water, ensuring the soil is moist before application. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Kōhūhū?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by using clean and sharp pruning shears. For Pittosporum tenuifolium, start by removing any dead or damaged branches to prevent disease. Trim back any long, unwanted branches to enhance the natural shape of the plant. For a denser shrub, cut back some branches by a third to encourage new growth. Always make cuts just above a bud or a branch junction. If you're aiming to shape Pittosporum tenuifolium into a formal hedge, use string lines or stakes as guides for a uniform height. Begin cutting from the bottom upwards to avoid damaging cut sections. Regularly step back to check symmetry and evenness, ensuring consistent shape and structure. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Kōhūhū plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Select healthy stems from the parent plant. Using pruning shears, cut sections about 6-8 inches long ensuring they have at least two leaf nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom third of each cutting.

Fill seed trays with a well-draining potting mix. Plant the seeds at a depth twice their diameter and water lightly. Keep the trays in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight.

Carefully dig up the plant and divide the rootball into sections using a clean, sharp knife. Each section should have roots and shoots. Replant the sections immediately into pots or prepared soil.

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How to Repot Kōhūhū plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Pittosporum tenuifolium should be repotted when you notice its roots are overcrowding the pot or growing out of drainage holes. Another sign is slower growth than usual during the active growing season. The best time to repot is during spring or early summer, as this gives the plant enough time to recover and establish in its new pot before the dormant season.

Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one with sufficient drainage holes. A slightly larger pot ensures that the roots have room to grow but aren't drowning in excessive soil that retains moisture. The material of the pot can vary but ensure it complements both your decor and plant needs—terracotta is excellent for moisture-loving plants but may require more frequent watering.

Select a well-draining soil, preferably a mix containing peat, pine bark, and perlite. This combination ensures good aeration, prevents waterlogging, and provides the plant with essential nutrients. Well-draining soil is crucial to prevent root rot, which Pittosporum tenuifolium is particularly susceptible to.

Toxicity of Kōhūhū

Is Kōhūhū toxic to humans?

Kōhūhū exhibits a mild toxicity level in humans, as all parts of the plant contain potentially dangerous saponins. Ingesting these saponins can result in adverse health effects. Symptoms associated with kōhūhū poisoning are primarily gastrointestinal, encompassing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Additionally, some individuals may encounter headaches and fatigue. Given that the entire plant is toxic, it is crucial to take precautions to avoid accidental ingestion, especially by children and pets who may be attracted to its alluring foliage or berries. The mild toxicity of kōhūhū highlights the necessity for awareness and caution when dealing with or being near this plant.

Is Kōhūhū toxic to cat?

Kōhūhū is known to have a mild degree of toxicity for felines. Cats can unintentionally consume various parts of the kōhūhū plant, leading to potential poisoning since all its sections contain saponins, the harmful compounds responsible. After ingestion, a cat may display symptoms of physical distress or illness. To reduce the risk, cat owners must keep a vigilant eye on their pets and ensure that kōhūhū is kept out of their reach. Should a cat show any negative reactions thought to be linked to the ingestion of kōhūhū, seeking immediate veterinary assistance is essential for the pet’s well-being.

Is Kōhūhū toxic to dog?

The species of plant known as kōhūhū possesses a mild toxicity level for dogs. Any part of this plant can be harmful if ingested, as it is entirely toxic. Dogs typically consume the plant by mistake, leading to potential poisoning. Symptoms following the ingestion of kōhūhū can include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, which are caused by saponins, the toxic compounds found within this plant. Dog owners should vigilantly supervise their pets and restrict access to kōhūhū to prevent any chances of accidental poisoning. In the event a dog consumes any part of kūhūhū, it is critical to seek immediate veterinary care.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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