How to Grow Pittosporum Irene Patterson - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Pittosporum irene patterson is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub that can reach heights of up to 15 feet. It has dark green leaves that are elliptical in shape and measure up to 4 inches long. The anthocyanin pigments in the leaves give them a purplish hue, which is especially noticeable in the new growth. White, fragrant flowers bloom in clusters from late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by dark blue fruits that are edible but not very tasty.

How to Grow Pittosporum Irene Patterson - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Pittosporum tenuifolium
  • Pittosporum eugenioides
  • Pittosporum undulatum
  • Pittosporum ralphii
  • Pittosporum crassifolium

Things to Know

  • Pittosporum irene patterson is a species of flowering plant in the Pittosporaceae family.
  • It is endemic to New Zealand, where it occurs on North Island and South Island.
  • The species was first described by Scottish botanist David income in 188
  • It is a small tree or shrub, growing to 5 m tall.
  • The leaves are elliptical to obovate, 2–7 cm long and 1–3 cm wide.
  • The flowers are white, 5–6 mm diameter, with five petals.
  • The fruit is a dark brown, spherical to oval, 5–6 mm diameter drupe.
  • Pittosporum irene patterson is named after Irish botanist Irene M.K. Patterson.
  • The specific epithet pattersonae honours Patterson's work on the Pittosporaceae.
  • Pittosporum irene patterson is used in horticulture, as an ornamental plant.

Related plant:
Pittosporum Shrub

Growing Steps

  1. For pittosporum irene patterson, first step is to find a sunny spot.
  2. Prepare the soil by mixing in some compost or other organic matter.
  3. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the root ball.
  4. Place the pittosporum irene patterson in the hole and backfill with soil.
  5. Tamp down the soil to remove any air pockets.
  6. Water the plant deeply immediately after planting.
  7. Place a layer of mulch around the base of the plant, but not touching the stem.
  8. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods.
  9. Fertilize the plant once or twice a year with a slow-release fertilizer.
  10. Prune as needed to shape the plant or remove any damaged or diseased branches.

Related plant:
Pittosporum Silver Ball

Soil Condition

About soil condition, Pittosporum irene patterson grows well in various types of soils including clay, loam, and sand. However, it prefers well-drained soils with a moderate amount of organic matter. It is tolerant of salt and drought but does not like waterlogged conditions.

Light requirement

So, like the other Pittosporum species, Irene Patterson requires full sun to partial sun for best growth and flowering. It will tolerate some light shade, but won't flower as profusely. Irene Patterson will also do best in well-drained soils that are not allowed to dry out.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for Pittosporum plants is one that is warm and humid. These plants do not like to be in cold or dry environments. If the temperature gets too cold, the leaves of the Pittosporum will start to turn brown and fall off. If the temperature gets too hot, the leaves will start to wilt and the flowers will start to fade.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40% to 60%. If the humidity level drops below 40%, the leaves will start to turn brown and crumble. If the humidity level goes above 60%, the leaves will start to yellow and fall off.

The Fertilizer

Regarding fertilizer, usually the plant does not need much. In fact, too much fertilizer can actually harm the plant. A good rule of thumb is to fertilize only when the plant is actively growing, which is typically in spring and summer. When fertilizing, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer and apply it sparingly around the base of the plant, taking care not to get any on the leaves. As for watering, the plant does best with regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. It is important to not let the root system dry out, so be sure to check the soil regularly and water as needed.

About light

Pruning is an important part of maintaining a healthy Pittosporum Irene Patterson. While this plant does not require pruning to thrive, doing so can help ensure that it remains looking its best.Pittosporum Irene Pattersons are fast-growing, evergreen shrubs that can reach up to 10 feet in height. They have dark green, leathery leaves and produce small, white flowers.Pittosporum Irene Pattersons are relatively low-maintenance plants. However, they will benefit from being pruned on a yearly basis. This will help to keep them looking neat and tidy, and will also encourage new growth.

About Propagating

Propagation is best done from semi-ripe cuttings taken in summer. rooting hormone powder can be used to encourage rooting. the cutting should be placed in a well-drained potting mix and kept moist. once roots have developed, the plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or placed in the garden.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is between 2-3 inches a year. This plant can grow up to 6-8 inches in a year with the right conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well drained soil that is not too dry. It is a good plant for hedges and can be used as a specimen plant.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are mainly due to its high water needs. If the plant is not given enough water, it will start to wilt and the leaves will turn yellow and fall off. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. If you suspect your plant has root rot, you should immediately remove it from the pot and replant it in fresh, well-draining soil.

Basics of Growing

  • Remember to water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
  • Pittosporum irene patterson is a fairly fast growing plant, so you may need to fertilize every few months to keep it looking its best.
  • This plant does best in full sun, but can tolerate some partial shade.
  • Prune annually to shape, and remove any dead or damaged branches.
  • This plant is tolerant of most soil types, but prefers well-drained soil.
  • Pittosporum irene patterson is generally a disease and pest free plant, but scale and mealybugs can be a problem. Watch for these pests and treat them accordingly.
  • This plant can be propagated by seed, but is more commonly propagated by rooting stem cuttings.
  • Pittosporum irene patterson makes an excellent hedge or screen plant.
  • It can also be used

Alternative Plants

  • Pittosporum eugenioides
  • Pittosporum eugenioides, commonly known as lemonwood or tarata, is a tree of forests, coastal shrubland, and scrubland in New Zealand, Australia and neighboring islands of the South Pacific. It grows to 20 m and has leave...
  • Pittosporum fragrans
  • Pittosporum fragrans, commonly known as the mock Orange, is a species of tino (toio) in the Pittosporum genus. It is common in New Zealand and the Chatham Islands. The mock...
  • Pittosporum neilsonii
  • Pittosporum neilsonii, also known as karo, is a species of tino (toio) native to New Zealand and the Chatham Islands. It typically occurs on the drier east coast of the North Island, and...
  • Pittosporum ralphii

Source:
Managing Pests in Gardens: Trees and Shrubs: Pittosporum, …
Pittosporum heterophyllum (Chinese Pittosporum) | North …
Japanese Pittosporum | University of Redlands

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category