Dwarf Pittosporum

Plant Type: evergreen shrub
Plant Height: 3–4 feet
Spread: 4–5 feet
Flower Color: creamy white (fragrant)
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Dwarf Pittosporum (Pittosporum tobira ‘Wheeleri’): Compact Form with Fragrant Spring Blooms

Dwarf Pittosporum ‘Wheeleri’ is a compact, rounded evergreen shrub valued for its dense, glossy foliage and fragrant spring flowers. With its naturally tidy shape and slow-to-moderate growth rate, it’s an ideal choice for low hedges, borders, or foundation plantings in Arizona landscapes.

Key Features of Dwarf Pittosporum ‘Wheeleri’

• Compact Growth Habit: Naturally forms a neat, rounded mound with little pruning.
• Fragrant Flowers: Creamy white blossoms in spring with a sweet, citrus-like fragrance.
• Evergreen Structure: Glossy green leaves provide year-round color and texture.
• Versatile Use: Excellent for borders, low hedges, or mass plantings.

Growing and Care Tips

Dwarf Pittosporum is adaptable and easy to grow when given the right conditions.

Soil: Prefers well-draining soil; tolerates sandy and loamy soils.
Water: Moderate during establishment; afterward, deep water every 2–4 weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Pruning: Minimal pruning required—light shaping after flowering if desired.

Landscaping Uses

• Low Hedges & Borders: Ideal for defining garden beds or walkways.
• Foundation Planting: Perfect for softening building lines.
• Accent Plant: Adds structure and evergreen color to mixed plantings.
• Coastal & Desert Gardens: Tolerates heat, salt spray, and wind.

Summary

Dwarf Pittosporum ‘Wheeleri’ is a low-maintenance, compact evergreen that brings year-round structure and fragrant seasonal blooms to Arizona landscapes. Its tidy form and adaptability make it a versatile choice for a variety of garden styles.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Dwarf Pittosporum ‘Wheeleri’

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun to partial shade; some afternoon shade in hotter climates helps prevent leaf scorch.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soils preferred.
Spacing: Space 4–5 feet apart for continuous low hedging.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not needed—naturally sturdy and compact.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
• Frequency: Every 4–5 days for first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to moisten soil 8–10 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 3–4 months of consistent watering and healthy new growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 2–4 weeks.
• Winter: Water monthly if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 1 emitter 8–12 inches from base.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One for smaller plants; two for mature shrubs.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase during extreme heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Dwarf Pittosporum ‘Wheeleri’:

• Soil Check: Allow top 2–3 inches to dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Consistently wet soil can cause root issues.
• Mulch: Apply organic mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature, keeping it away from the trunk base.