tree

Weeping Pittosporum

The Story

Plant Bio

Pittosporum angustifolium is an evergreen Australian tree with a weeping, pendulous branch habit and a narrow, upright canopy. The long, leathery, gray-green leaves hang vertically along the stems, bearing small, fragrant, bell-shaped yellow flowers from late winter to mid-spring.

This species is highly adapted to arid conditions, exhibiting exceptional drought tolerance once its deep root system is established. It is frequently confused in historical literature with Pittosporum phillyreoides, which is a distinct, narrow endemic species restricted to coastal Western Australia.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a striking, fine-textured weeping silhouette with pendulous gray-green foliage and fragrant spring flowers.

Acts as an exceptionally drought-tolerant windbreak or screen in arid, hot, and dry coastal landscapes.

Attracts bees, butterflies, and other generalist insect pollinators to its fragrant nectar-rich blooms.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

240"

Width

120"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late winter – Mid-spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to light shade with excellent drainage, preferably on an elevated slope or in sandy, loamy soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, ensuring the root flare sits slightly above the surrounding soil level.
Water deeply once or twice a week during the first two summers to encourage deep root penetration, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Taper irrigation off entirely once established, relying only on occasional deep watering during prolonged, multi-month droughts.

Pro Tip

Plant this tree far from sewer lines and foundations, as the water-seeking root system aggressively hunts moisture in dry soils. Avoid over-watering, which is the primary cause of establishment failure; instead, transition to deep, infrequent irrigation after the first year.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in highly permeable, well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Provide a strong stake during the first year to support the weeping leader.
Prune lightly immediately after flowering to shape or encourage denser growth.

Don't

Do not plant near underground pipes, septic systems, or building foundations.
Do not over-water or allow the soil to remain waterlogged.
Do not cut back severely into old, leafless wood, as it will not regenerate reliably.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Specimen TreeWindbreakScreeningXeriscapingDry Coastal Garden

Companion Plants

Rosmarinus officinalis Agave americana Salvia apiana

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Weeping Pittosporum questions

What zones can Weeping Pittosporum grow in?

Weeping Pittosporum is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Weeping Pittosporum deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Weeping Pittosporum, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Weeping Pittosporum bloom?

Weeping Pittosporum typically blooms in late winter through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Weeping Pittosporum need full sun?

Weeping Pittosporum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Weeping Pittosporum drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Weeping Pittosporum handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.