Pittosporum Tom Thumb 3lt

Planting Pittosporum ‘Tom Thumb’ (3L)

Pittosporum ‘Tom Thumb’ is a compact, evergreen shrub known for its rich purple-bronze foliage that deepens in colour throughout the year. Supplied in a 3L pot, it is ideal for borders, low hedging, and containers, adding strong contrast and structure to planting schemes.

Choosing the right position

• Prefers full sun to partial shade
• Best foliage colour develops in a sunny position
• Ideal for borders, low hedging, and container planting
• Works well in modern and formal garden designs
• Choose a sheltered position protected from strong, cold winds

Soil requirements

• Thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil
• Prefers neutral to slightly acidic conditions
• Tolerates a range of soil types if well improved
• Does not tolerate heavy, waterlogged soil
• Improve drainage with grit or organic matter if needed

How to plant

• Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and similar depth
• Position the plant so the root ball sits level with the soil surface
• Backfill with soil and firm gently
• Water thoroughly after planting
• Space plants around 40–60cm apart for low hedging
• Apply a mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Planting in containers

• Use a pot with good drainage holes
• Fill with a high-quality, free-draining compost
• Choose a container slightly larger than the root ball
• Water well after planting
• Place in a sunny or partially shaded position

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Pittosporum ‘Tom Thumb’ is low maintenance and easy to manage, making it ideal for structured planting.

Watering

• Water regularly during the first growing season
• Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant
• Water during prolonged dry periods
• Container plants require more frequent watering
• Avoid waterlogging, especially in winter

Feeding

• Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring
• Mulch annually with compost or organic matter
• Container plants benefit from occasional liquid feeding
• Avoid excessive feeding, which can reduce colour intensity

Pruning

• Trim lightly to maintain a neat, compact shape
• Prune in late spring or early summer
• Suitable for shaping into low hedges or rounded forms
• Remove any dead or damaged stems
• Regular trimming encourages dense growth

Mulching

• Apply organic mulch in spring
• Helps retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Improves soil structure over time
• Keep mulch away from the base of the plant

Seasonal Care and Common Issues

With proper care, Pittosporum ‘Tom Thumb’ will provide rich colour and structure all year round.

Seasonal performance

• Foliage displays deep purple to bronze tones throughout the year
• Colour intensifies in cooler weather
• Compact habit makes it ideal for smaller gardens and containers
• Provides strong contrast in mixed planting schemes

Winter care

• Hardy in mild climates but may need protection in colder areas
• Protect from cold winds and severe frost
• Ensure soil is well-drained during winter
• Container plants may need shelter in very cold conditions

Common problems

• Leaf drop may occur in cold or exposed conditions
• Root rot can develop in poorly drained soil
• Colour may fade in too much shade
• Generally pest-resistant
• Wind damage can affect exposed plants

Pittosporum ‘Tom Thumb’ (3L) is a compact and colourful evergreen shrub that adds depth and structure to the garden. Its rich foliage and tidy growth habit make it perfect for borders, low hedging, and containers. With a sunny, sheltered position and well-drained soil, it will thrive and provide year-round interest.