Overview
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum (Putt.) Moeser is a small evergreen shrub with shiny, leathery leaves. This plant is native to South Africa and is commonly known as the 'Cheesewood' or 'Shepherd's Tree'. It belongs to the Pittosporaceae family and grows up to 3 meters in height.
Appearance
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum has dark grey bark with numerous horizontal lenticels. The leaves are glossy, oblong-elliptic, and measure about 9 cm by 3 cm. The flowers are small, yellow-green, and star-shaped, with a diameter of about 1 cm. The fruit is a dry, woody capsule, with a diameter of about 2 cm and contains tiny seeds.
Uses
The Cheesewood plant is widely used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of illnesses such as abdominal pains, pneumonia, and tuberculosis. It is also used as an ornamental plant in landscaping due to its attractive foliage and abundant flowering. The plant's wood is used for making small household items such as spoons and egg cups, and also as firewood.
Cultivation
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum grows best in full sun or partial shade, with well-drained moist soil. It is highly tolerant to drought, frost, and salt spray. Propagation can be done by seeds or cuttings, and the plant responds well to pruning. However, it is important to note that the plant's wood and leaves are toxic when ingested, so it should be kept away from children and pets.
Light Requirements
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum (Putt.) Moeser prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade may result in leggy growth and sparse foliage.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to South Africa and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F (-6.7°C) and as high as 100°F (37.8°C). However, it grows best in temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 80°F (26.7°C). Sudden changes in temperature may cause stress to the plant, so it is best to avoid exposing it to extreme temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum (Putt.) Moeser grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, but it prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 5.5 to 7.0). The plant can also grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils as long as they are well-draining. It is important to avoid waterlogged soils as they can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum (Putt.) Moeser, also known as the Cheesewood, is a versatile plant that can grow as a shrub or small tree, depending on the cultivation method. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated around the world for its ornamental value and hardiness. To cultivate this plant, choose a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range is between 5.5 and 7.5. This plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but it prefers to grow in a spot that receives bright but filtered light.
Watering Needs
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out partially between watering sessions. Do not overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot and other diseases. Ensure that the water drains away from the roots to prevent waterlogging. During hot and dry weather, mist the plant regularly to maintain the humidity level around the leaves.
Fertilization
For optimal growth and development, fertilize Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer that releases nutrients gradually over an extended period. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, which usually runs from spring to fall. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for dosage and application.
Pruning
Pruning Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum is essential to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant in late winter to early spring before the growing season begins. Use sharp and clean pruning shears to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Also, remove any shoots that grow from the base of the plant and thin out congested branches to improve air circulation. Do not remove more than one-third of the plant's growth during a single pruning session.
Propagation of Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum (Putt.) Moeser
Propagating Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum (Putt.) Moeser can be done through different methods. Some of the common methods that gardeners use to reproduce this plant include:
Seeds
Seeds are a readily available propagation method for Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum (Putt.) Moeser. They can be collected from mature fruits that have turned brown and dried off. Before sowing, ensure that you soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat. Sow the seeds, and ensure that they are covered with a light layer of soil. Place them in a warm, brightly lit area, keep them moist, and germination should occur within two to four weeks.
Cuttings
Cuttings are a quick way to propagate Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum (Putt.) Moeser. Take softwood cuttings of approximately 10 cm in length, making an angled cut just below a node. Remove all leaves except for the top two pairs. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a suitable growing medium. Ensure that there are no leaves touching the medium, and place the cutting in a bright, warm location. Keep the soil moist, and within six to eight weeks, the cutting should develop roots and begin to grow.
Division
Division is another propagation technique that works well for mature Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum (Putt.) Moeser plants. Gently remove the plant from its container or the soil, and use a sharp knife or spade to divide the root ball into several sections. Ensure that each section has some healthy roots and foliage. Replant each section in a suitable container or the ground, and water them thoroughly. Keep them in a shaded location for a few days to help them acclimate to the new environment, and then gradually expose them to more sunlight.
Disease Management:
There are several common diseases that can affect Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum (Putt.) Moeser. These include:
- Leaf spot: This disease appears as brown spots on the plant's leaves and can be caused by several fungi. To manage leaf spot, remove all infected leaves and prune the plant to improve air circulation.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil and can lead to wilting and death of the plant. To manage root rot, improve soil drainage and reduce watering frequency.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on the plant's leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove all infected leaves and prune the plant to improve air circulation. Fungicidal sprays may also be effective.
Pest Management:
There are several common pests that can affect Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims var. commutatum (Putt.) Moeser. These include:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing damage and stunting growth. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them or use insecticidal soap.
- Scale insects: These insects attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stems, sucking sap and causing yellowing and wilting. To manage scale insects, remove all infected leaves and prune the plant. Insecticidal sprays may also be effective.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can defoliate the plant, causing severe damage. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant or use Bacillus thuringiensis insecticidal spray.
