Pittosporum Dark Diva

An elegant new variety of Pittosporum, 'Dark Diva' is celebrated for its deep, chocolate-purple foliage that appears almost black against its slender, ebony stems. The wavy-edged leaves have a high-gloss finish, catching the light and providing a sophisticated backdrop for lighter-coloured garden plants. In late spring and early summer, it produces small, honey-scented purple flowers that, while discreet, add a wonderful evening fragrance to the garden. This upright, columnar shrub is relatively fast-growing and responds excellently to trimming, making it a stylish choice for an ornamental hedge or a dramatic specimen in a large pot. While it is wind-resistant and handles coastal air well, it prefers a spot sheltered from the harshest freezing winds to protect its lush foliage.

Site: Tolerates some coastal exposure
Soil: Any light, well drained soil, preferably moist
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: All year, particularly late spring and early summer
Hardiness: Hardy to -10°C
Height:  10’ (3m) Spread: 5’ (1.5m)