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Pittosporum for hedging

Pittosporum are a good choice for hedging in milder parts of the UK with their bushy, dense, evergreen growth. Naturally compact cultivars are great for low hedges and as alternatives to traditional box (Buxus). Many pittosporum are vigorous and will quickly form medium to tall hedges.

Practical tips

Lightly trim hedges or shaped plants one to two times a year between mid-spring and late summer (just check for nesting birds first as it's an offence to disturb them).

Pittosporum tobira needs the shelter of a frost-free greenhouse or conservatory in winter, unless you live in a big city or have a coastal garden in the UK. All the others listed here will grow outside all year, except in the coldest areas of Scotland and northern England. 

Pittosporums for low hedging 

Compact cultivars make attractive low hedges under 1.5m (5ft) tall. You can clip over these evergreen plants one to three times a year from mid-spring to late summer to keep them neat and to the size you require. 

Pittosporums for medium to tall hedges and clipped domes

These fast-growing cultivars form neat evergreen hedges, 90cm-1.8m (3-6ft) tall, and can easily be clipped into domes and rounded shapes of similar heights.

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