Common name: Pittosporum

Description: Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Malahide' is a vigorous and attractive evergreen shrub or small tree with distinctive pale green, wavy-edged leaves borne on near-black stems — a characteristic combination that gives the foliage a refined, two-toned appearance. In late spring, small, honey-scented, deep chocolate-purple flowers are produced and, whilst small, fill the surrounding air with a delightful fragrance. An excellent choice for hedging, screening, or as a large specimen, it is widely used by florists for its attractive foliage. Hardy in most UK gardens.

Other benefits: fragrant spring flowers, attractive foliage for cutting, excellent for hedging

Wildlife attraction: bees attracted to the fragrant flowers

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 3m x 2m

Position: full sun to partial shade; sheltered from cold winds

Soil pH: neutral to slightly alkaline

Moisture: well-drained; drought tolerant once established

Winter hardiness: cold hardy to -10°C