Overview
Pittosporum fragrantissimum Engl. is a plant species commonly referred to as sweet pittosporum or mock orange. It belongs to the family Pittosporaceae and is a native to Papua New Guinea. The plant is widely cultivated all over the world for its ornamental purposes and sweet-smelling flowers. It is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a dense, rounded and symmetrical growth habit.
Description
The leaves of Pittosporum fragrantissimum are dark green, glossy, and lance-shaped, with an average length of 6-12 cm. It produces small cream-colored flowers that appear in clusters, and which have a strong and sweet fragrance. The flowers bloom in late winter to early spring and attract a variety of insects like bees and butterflies. The plant produces a small fruit which contains several seeds encased in a woody capsule.
Uses
Pittosporum fragrantissimum is commonly used for its ornamental purposes due to its attractive foliage and sweet-scented flowers. It is a popular choice for landscaping in public parks, gardens, and along roadsides. The plant is also used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. Some parts of the plant are believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-tumor properties. The seeds of the plant are used to make soap and oil.
Cultivation
Pittosporum fragrantissimum can be grown in a variety of soils, ranging from sandy, loamy to clay soils. It prefers well-drained soils that are fertile and moist. The plant prefers a warm and tropical climate and does not tolerate frost. It should receive ample light to produce an abundant number of flowers. The shrub is easy to grow and maintain and can be easily propagated from seeds, cuttings, or by layering.
Light Requirements
Pittosporum fragrantissimum prefers full to partial sun exposure for optimal growth. Partial shade may also be acceptable, but it can result in reduced flowering and slower growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is suitable for warm and humid climates, with temperature ranges of 20 to 32°C. It can tolerate light frost but cannot withstand prolonged cold periods.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soils with a pH level ranging between 6-7.5 are ideal for Pittosporum fragrantissimum. The soil should be able to retain moisture but not become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. Incorporating organic matter into the soil can boost the plant's growth and vigor.
Cultivation Methods
Pittosporum fragrantissimum Engl., commonly known as sweet pittosporum or mock orange, is a slow-growing shrub that can reach a height of up to 20 feet. It is relatively easy to cultivate in areas with a warm climate and well-drained soil. The plant grows best in full sun or partial shade, and it is essential to plant it in a location that has good air circulation to avoid fungal diseases. Planting should be done in spring or autumn when the soil is moist.
Watering Needs
Watering is critical during the first year after planting to help establish the roots. The plant requires moderate watering, about once or twice a week, during the growing season. During hot and dry weather, you may need to water it more frequently to keep the soil moist. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other related diseases.
Fertilization
Pittosporum fragrantissimum requires little to no fertilizer, especially if the plant is growing in nutrient-rich soil. If the soil is poor, a slow-release fertilizer may be used once or twice a year during the growing season. However, over-fertilization should be avoided as it can cause excessive growth and make the plant more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning
The mock orange does not require regular pruning, but occasional pruning may be done to maintain its shape and size. The best time to prune is after the blooming period, either in late spring or early summer. Dead or diseased branches should be removed, along with any suckers or shoots that are growing from the base of the plant. Light pruning may also be done during the growing season to remove any damaged or unwanted branches.
Propagation of Pittosporum fragrantissimum Engl.
Pittosporum fragrantissimum Engl., commonly known as Sweet Pittosporum, is a slow-growing shrub or small tree that is propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and air layering. Below are the three most common methods of propagation:
Propagating through seeds
The easiest and most economical way of propagating Pittosporum fragrantissimum Engl. is through seeds. The seeds are collected from mature fruits in the fall or winter. Before planting, the seeds need to be cleaned and soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the hard outer coat. Then, plant the seeds in a soilless mix or potting soil that drains well. Keep the soil evenly moist and place in a warm spot with indirect sunlight. The seeds usually germinate in about 2-4 weeks.
Propagating through cuttings
Pittosporum fragrantissimum Engl. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take semi-hardwood cuttings from the current season's growth in the late summer or early fall. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle and remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in an area with bright, indirect light. The cuttings will root in about 4-6 weeks.
Propagating through air layering
Air layering is another method of propagating Pittosporum fragrantissimum Engl. that is suitable for larger plants or established shrubs. Choose a healthy, straight stem and remove the leaves from a section about 12 inches from the tip. Apply rooting hormone to the exposed bark and wrap the area with moist moss and plastic wrap. Secure the moss with string or tape and keep it moist. Roots will form at the cut area in approximately 4-6 weeks. Once roots have formed, cut the stem below the rooted area and plant it in a container with well-draining soil mix.
Disease Management for Pittosporum fragrantissimum Engl.
Pittosporum fragrantissimum Engl. can be prone to certain diseases that can cause damage to the plant if left untreated. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to the growth of fungi that attack the roots of the plant. To manage root rot, remove any affected roots and improve drainage by planting the tree in well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering and make sure the soil has adequate drainage.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by fungi and can be identified by spots on leaves that start as small, circular lesions and grow larger and more irregular in shape over time. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and dispose of them. Treat the tree with a fungicide spray to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is caused by fungi and can be identified by powdery, white growth on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, remove any infected plant parts and dispose of them. Treat the tree with a fungicide spray to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Pittosporum fragrantissimum Engl.
Pittosporum fragrantissimum Engl. can also be susceptible to certain pests that can cause damage to the plant. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, spray the tree with a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the plant. Alternatively, use an insecticidal soap or spray to kill the aphids.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to the plant and suck the sap, causing yellowing leaves and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, use a soft-bristled brush to remove the insects from the plant. Alternatively, use an insecticidal spray to kill them.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged insects that can cause yellowing leaves, webbing, and reduced growth. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the plant. Alternatively, use an insecticidal soap or spray to kill them.
