Wheeler's Dwarf Pittosporum
Wheeler's Dwarf Pittosporum
A lovely, elegant choice as a low growing hedge, as ground cover, or simply planted as part of your personal landscape, Wheeler’s Dwarf or Pittosporum tobira is a gorgeous, deep green broadleaf evergreen that looks great anywhere you place it. Capable of tolerating anywhere from low light to full sun, this amazing plant prefers full sun to partial shade to reach its largest possible size of a little over 3 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide, untrimmed. Preferring average to moist, fertile soil, enjoy clusters of creamy yellow and white bell-shaped, incredibly fragrant flowers in the Spring and simple, glossy green foliage throughout the rest of the year. An incredibly tough and durable plant, it’s disease and insect resistant, though when it comes to deer, it’s only somewhat resistant to them. Plant 2 feet apart to create a hedge or farther apart if you want space between them for distinction and their beauty will shine either way.
Questions & Answers
Have a Question?
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My front door area faces the west heat with 3 brick walls around the bed( the area is about 15 ft wide. Will dwarf pitts survive that heat? Thx!
Dwarf Pittosporum can tolerate heat, but the intense west-facing sun combined with the heat from three brick walls might stress the plant. To help it thrive: Provide afternoon shade with a shade cloth or taller plants. Ensure consistent watering to prevent drying out. Mulch the soil to regulate temperature and retain moisture.
If temperatures are extreme, consider more heat-tolerant alternatives like succulents or hardy shrubs.
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What zone should Pittosporum ‘Wheeler’s Dwarf’ be planted in?
Zones 8–10.
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Is pittosporum in danger of freezing in DFW Metroplex winters?
Yes, it may freeze during harsh winters in Dallas-Fort Worth.
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Can this be put in a planter?
Yes, it does well in planters with proper drainage and care.
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Mine are turning brown and look to be dying. Some are in great shape tho??? Why?
If your Wheeler’s Dwarf Pittosporums are turning brown and appear to be dying while others are in great shape, the issue could be due to several factors. Uneven watering, poor drainage, root rot, or fungal diseases can cause browning. Overwatering or waterlogged soil can lead to root issues, while under-watering can cause stress and browning. Another possibility is poor air circulation or insect infestations, like scale or aphids. Inspect the soil moisture and check for pests or signs of disease to identify the problem and treat it accordingly.
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Can you plant pittosporum in pot for balcony?
Yes, you can plant Wheeler’s Dwarf Pittosporum (Pittosporum tobira ‘Wheeler’s Dwarf’) in a pot on a balcony. This compact, slow-growing shrub thrives in containers due to its manageable size. Ensure the pot has proper drainage, and use well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Place it in a spot that receives partial to full sunlight, and water regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Wheeler’s Dwarf Pittosporum is an excellent choice for balcony gardening, adding lush greenery with minimal maintenance.
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What zone does Wheeler's Dwarf Pittosporum grow in?
Zones 8–10.
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Does Pittosporum do well in a shady location?
Yes, Pittosporum can tolerate partial shade, but it prefers a location with some sunlight for best growth and dense foliage. In deep shade, it may grow leggy and produce fewer flowers.
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Can it live in zone 6
No, it is not cold-hardy enough for zone 6 winters.
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will this shrub grow in NJ zone 6
No, it is not cold-hardy enough for zone 6 winters.
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Where is it native?
Native to Japan and China.
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Can they survive in containers and in zone 7a?
Yes, in containers, but provide winter protection in zone 7a.
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What are the temperature limitations on this plant ? Will it tolerate temps in the 20's for a few days ? I live in Houston TX...Thanks..
Wheeler's Dwarf Pittosporum tolerates temperatures as low as 15–20°F. It can handle temps in the 20s for a few days, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures may cause leaf damage or dieback. Providing protection, like covering or mulching, can help during cold spells.
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Dwarf pittasporium has some kind of disease. Is there something I can spay on them
Dwarf Pittosporum is prone to fungal diseases like leaf spot or root rot. Here’s what you can spray: Fungicide – Use a copper-based or broad-spectrum fungicide for fungal issues. Neem oil – Effective for both fungal problems and pests.
Before spraying, remove infected leaves and ensure proper airflow. Avoid overwatering to prevent further issues. Always follow product label instructions.
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Will this plant do well in zone 7?
Yes, but only with some winter protection in colder areas of zone 7.
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Deer tolerant?
Yes, it is generally deer-tolerant.
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How fast or slow does this grow?
Slow to moderate growth rate.
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Will it thrive in south Florida?
Yes, it thrives in South Florida’s warm climate.
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would this be compatible to plant with steeds holly?
Yes, both have similar care needs and complement each other visually.
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What zones I live in Ohio!
Zones 8–10.
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Need a lot of water? sun or shade?
Water Needs: Wheeler’s Dwarf Pittosporum prefers moderate watering. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering in hot, dry periods.
Sun/Shade: It grows well in full sun to partial shade. Too much shade may reduce its compact growth habit.
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How cold will pitttosporum wheeleri grow thru
Down to about 15–20°F.
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What is heat and cold tolerance --- zone 7
Tolerates moderate heat but may need protection from extreme cold in zone 7.