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.
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.
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.