Japanese cheesewood

A hardy shrub with sticky seeds.

Japanese cheesewood (Pittosporum tobira)
Japanese cheesewood - Pittosporum tobira
Japanese cheesewood with flower
Japanese cheesewood with flower

Japanese cheesewood is a hardy evergreen shrub that is grown as an ornamental plant throughout the world. In the Mediterranean region, it is often grown as a hedge because it is resistant to drought and heavy pruning. 

If the plant is allowed to grow freely, it can become a small tree, up to 10 meters high. It bears clusters of white, fragrant flowers at the ends of the branches. The fruits are hairy, woody capsules and on opening, the handsome orange-red slightly sticky seeds are revealed. 

The plant is easily grown as a houseplant. It can be grown as a perennial in Denmark but needs protection from the frost in the winter.


Facts:

  • Greenhouse location: The Mountain Forest House
  • Danish name: Ægte klæbefrø
  • Latin name: Pittosporum tobira
  • Family: Cheesewood Family / Pittosporaceae
  • Natural habitat: Japan, China and Korea

Read more about plants here.