Variegated Mock Orange

Pittosporum tobira 'Variegata'

Water
Moderate water; irrigate deeply and let the upper few inches of soil dry before watering again. Water more frequently during establishment and extreme summer heat, and reduce watering in winter.
Toxicity
Description
Variegated Japanese mock orange (Pittosporum tobira ‘Variegata’) is a broadleaf shrub with leathery, cream-edged leaves and fragrant spring flowers. In Phoenix, it performs best in sheltered, irrigated landscapes rather than exposed desert settings.
Bloom Time
Deciduous / Evergreen
Growth Rate
Flower Color
Toxicity
Toxic to pets if ingested (ASPCA lists Japanese pittosporum as toxic; saponins)
Care Instructions

Light: Morning sun with afternoon shade or bright filtered shade. Protect from intense western sun and reflected heat.

Water: Moderate water; irrigate deeply and let the upper few inches of soil dry before watering again. Water more frequently during establishment and extreme summer heat, and reduce watering in winter.

Soil: Well-drained soil enriched with compost. Tolerates mildly alkaline soil, but poorly drained clay and highly alkaline conditions can cause problems.

Mature size: Typically 6–10 feet tall and wide; may grow larger with age in favorable conditions.

Bloom: Spring; flowering may be reduced by heavy shearing or deep shade.

Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.

Growth rate: Slow to moderate.