Pittosporum Tenuifolium Golf Ball

• Golf Ball is a compact cultivar of Pittosporum tenuifolium, bred for its naturally rounded growth habit. It typically reaches 1-1.5 metres in height and width.
• The small, oval leaves are bright green and glossy, providing year-round foliage interest. Fragrant cream flowers appear in clusters during spring months.
• This cultivar is prized by landscape designers for its architectural form and reliability. It works beautifully as a specimen plant or repeated in formal garden designs.
• Native to New Zealand, it has adapted exceptionally well to Australian coastal and temperate climates.

• Water weekly during establishment, then reduce to fortnightly or monthly depending on rainfall. Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root development.
• Position in full sun to partial shade with good air circulation. Avoid heavily shaded locations which cause leggy growth.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost and organic matter. Heavy clay requires drainage improvement with sand and organic amendments.
• Feed with low-phosphorus native plant fertiliser in early spring. Follow packet directions and avoid over-fertilising which causes soft growth.
• Prune lightly after flowering if needed, though the natural form rarely requires shaping. Remove any dead or damaged branches promptly.
• Increase watering during hot summer months and reduce in winter. Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

• Provide full sun to partial shade for best growth and compact form. Morning sun with afternoon protection works well in hot climates.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Established plants are quite drought tolerant once root systems develop.
• Plant in well-draining soil with good organic matter. Heavy clay soils should be amended with compost and coarse sand.
• Fertilise in early spring with slow-release native plant fertiliser. Avoid high phosphorus fertilisers which can damage root systems.
• Light pruning after flowering maintains shape, though the natural ball form requires minimal intervention.

• Scale insects can attach to stems and leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap applied fortnightly.
• Aphids may cluster on new growth tips during spring. Blast off with water or use predatory insects like ladybirds for natural control.
• Root rot occurs in poorly draining soils or with overwatering. Ensure excellent drainage and reduce watering frequency in heavy clay soils.
• Leaf spot fungal diseases appear as brown patches in humid conditions. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent spread.