Pittosporum tenuifolium Snow Leopard

Description:
Pittosporum tenuifolium Snow Leopard is an elegant, evergreen shrub prized for its striking variegated foliage and compact growth habit. The combination of creamy-white margins and soft green centres on its leaves provides year-round visual interest, making it an excellent choice for brightening garden spaces or adding contrast in mixed plantings. This versatile and hardy plant is a favourite for formal hedging, borders, or as a feature plant.

Flowers:
Small, inconspicuous, dark purple flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, emitting a light, sweet fragrance. These blooms, while subtle, add a charming seasonal accent.

Foliage:
The standout feature of Snow Leopard is its stunning variegated leaves. Each lance-shaped leaf is adorned with creamy-white margins and a soft green centre, creating a luminous effect in the garden. The dense foliage offers year-round interest and structure.

Fruit:
Small seed capsules may form following flowering, though they are rarely significant in ornamental displays.

Form and Size:
This shrub grows to a compact, rounded form, typically reaching 1–1.5 meters in height and width. Its neat habit makes it suitable for smaller gardens, containers, or as a low hedge.

Growing Conditions:

• Position: Prefers full sun to partial shade, with adequate protection from harsh winds. Full sun enhances the vibrancy of its variegated foliage.
• Soil: Grows best in well-drained soils, ranging from sandy to loamy, and tolerates a variety of pH levels.
• Watering: Requires regular watering during establishment but becomes drought-tolerant once mature.
• Climate: Well-suited to temperate climates and tolerant of coastal conditions. Moderate frost tolerance.

Uses:
Ideal for use as a low hedge, border, or feature plant. Its compact size and variegated foliage make it perfect for creating bright focal points in garden beds or patio containers.

Maintenance:

• Light pruning after flowering will maintain its compact, rounded shape.
• Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in spring for healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
• Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and reduce weed competition.
• Requires minimal upkeep beyond occasional trimming to maintain its form.

Notes:
Pittosporum tenuifolium Snow Leopard's variegated foliage makes it a standout in any garden design, offering year-round appeal. It’s a hardy and adaptable choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance, decorative shrubs.

Companion Plants:
Pair with flowering shrubs like Camellias or Gardenias for complementary texture and color. Works well alongside other Pittosporum varieties or with grasses and perennials for layered planting schemes.

Common Name: Snow Leopard Pittosporum
Botanical Name: Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Snow Leopard'
Family: Pittosporaceae
Origin: New Zealand

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