Pittosporum Tenuifolium 'James Sterling'

• This cultivar is prized for its exceptional silver-grey foliage that adds a sophisticated, modern touch to any garden design.
• Grows in a naturally rounded, compact form reaching moderate size, making it versatile for various landscape applications.
• The small, fragrant flowers appear in spring, adding subtle charm though the main attraction is the stunning foliage year-round.
• Highly valued by landscapers and home gardeners for its low-maintenance nature and ability to create contrast in mixed plantings.
• Excellent drought tolerance once established makes it well-suited to water-wise Australian gardens and coastal conditions.

• Water deeply once or twice weekly during warmer months, reducing to fortnightly in winter once established; check top 5cm of soil is dry before watering.
• Position in full sun for the most vibrant silver foliage, though it tolerates part shade in hotter inland areas; morning sun with afternoon shade works well in extreme climates.
• Plant in well-drained soil enriched with compost; this pittosporum adapts to most soil types but struggles in heavy clay without amendment.
• Feed in early spring with a slow-release native plant fertiliser or general-purpose product; avoid over-fertilising which can reduce the intensity of the silver foliage.
• Prune lightly in late spring after flowering to shape and maintain size; trim hedges 2-3 times yearly for formal appearance.
• Mulch around the base with organic matter to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from the trunk.
• Monitor for pests during spring flush of new growth; the plant is generally hardy but watch for scale and aphids on tender shoots.

• Plant in full sun to part shade for the best silver foliage colour; more sun intensifies the silvery tones while shade may cause greening.
• Water regularly during establishment for the first 12 months, then reduce frequency as the plant becomes drought tolerant.
• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense, compact growth; responds well to trimming for formal hedges.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature through hot Australian summers.
• Feed in early spring with a native plant fertiliser or general-purpose slow-release product for optimal growth and foliage colour.

• Scale insects and aphids may occasionally appear on new growth; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap applied directly to affected areas.
• Root rot can develop in poorly drained soils or from overwatering; ensure excellent drainage and allow soil to dry between waterings.
• Leaf spot fungus may occur in humid conditions with poor air circulation; remove affected leaves and improve spacing between plants.
• Yellowing leaves often indicate nutrient deficiency or waterlogging; check drainage and apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser.