Variegated Pittosporum

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

6-8 Feet

Mature Spread

6-8 Feet

Growing Zones

9 to 10

Variegated Pittosporum (Pittosporum tobira ‘Variegata’), also known as Variegated Japanese Mock Orange, is a compact evergreen shrub with striking variegated foliage. In spring, it produces small white flowers with a delightful orange-blossom fragrance.

This versatile shrub works beautifully in the shrub border, as a hedge, in mass plantings, or as a privacy screen. Its year-round evergreen leaves provide consistent color and texture to the landscape.

Variegated Pittosporum Care

Water weekly until established, increasing frequency during periods of extreme heat. Fertilize in early spring before new growth emerges. Prune in late winter to shape as desired. Once established, this plant is drought-tolerant and can withstand extended dry periods.

Coastal exposure, including salt spray and high winds, does not affect its performance. The fragrant spring flowers and variegated foliage make it an attractive addition to woodland gardens, urban landscapes, and planter displays.

Variegated Pittosporum Spacing

For mass plantings and shrub borders, space plants 8 to 9 feet apart. For hedges and privacy screens, space 6 to 8 feet apart, or slightly closer for a denser effect. Typically grows 6 to 8 feet tall and wide, with a compact growth habit, making it ideal for borders, formal hedges, and foundation plantings.

Why Grow Variegated Pittosporum?

• Compact evergreen shrub with year-round variegated foliage

• Fragrant white flowers in spring

• Excellent for hedges, privacy screens, mass plantings, and borders

• Drought tolerant and coastal exposure resistant

• Ideal for urban gardens, woodland gardens, and fire-smart landscapes

Variegated Pittosporum combines fragrance, striking foliage, and year-round interest, making it a versatile and low-maintenance choice for a variety of landscape applications.