Variegated Japanese Pittosporum
Pittosporum tobira 'Variegatum'
- Stay Protected with Plant Sentry ™
Variegated Japanese Pittosporum is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
Plant Sentry™
Plant Sentry™

Plant Sentry™ Protected
Your order is protected by our compliance system that:
- Prevents restricted plants from shipping to your state
- Ensures plants meet your state's agricultural requirements
- Protects gardens from invasive pests and diseases
Delivery and Shipping
Delivery and Shipping
Delivery and Shipping
Fast, Safe Plant Delivery
Ships in 3-4 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected
Under $50 | $9.99 |
$50 - $99.99 | $14.99 |
$100 - $149.99 | $16.99 |
$150+ | $24.99 |
✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee
Understanding Plant Options
Nature Hills offers plants in two main formats:
- Container Plants: Grown in pots with soil, sized by container volume and plant age
- Bare Root Plants: Dormant plants without soil, sized by height measurements
Container Plant Sizes
Container sizes indicate plant age and growing capacity rather than liquid volume equivalents. Our containers follow industry-standard nursery "trade gallon" specifications, which differ from standard liquid gallon measurements.
Young Plants (6 months to 18 months old)
Container Size | Actual Volume | Metric Equivalent |
---|---|---|
2" x 2" x 3" | 0.18 - 0.21 dry quarts | 0.20 - 0.23 dry liters |
4" Container | 0.31 - 0.87 dry quarts | 0.35 - 0.96 dry liters |
4.5" Container | 0.65 dry quarts | 0.72 dry liters |
6" Container | 1.4 dry quarts | 1.59 dry liters |
1 Quart | 1 dry quart | 1.1 dry liters |
5.5" Container | 1.89 dry quarts | 2.08 dry liters |
Established Plants (18 months to 2.5 years old)
Container Size | Actual Volume | Metric Equivalent |
---|---|---|
2 Quart | 2 dry quarts | 2.2 dry liters |
#1 Container | 2.26 - 3.73 dry quarts | 2.49 - 4.11 dry liters |
5" x 5" x 12" | 3.5 - 4.3 dry quarts | 3.85 - 4.74 dry liters |
Mature Plants (2-4 years old)
Container Size | Actual Volume | Metric Equivalent |
---|---|---|
#2 Container | 1.19 - 1.76 dry gallons | 5.24 - 7.75 dry liters |
#3 Container | 2.15 - 2.76 dry gallons | 8.14 - 12.16 dry liters |
Large Plants (3-5 years old)
Container Size | Actual Volume | Metric Equivalent |
---|---|---|
#5 Container | 2.92 - 4.62 dry gallons | 12.86 - 20.35 dry liters |
#6 Container | 5.25 - 6.01 dry gallons | 23.12 - 26.42 dry liters |
#7 Container | 5.98 - 6.53 dry gallons | 26.34 - 28.76 dry liters |
Bare Root Plants
Bare root plants are sold by height from the root system to the top of the plant. Plants may exceed minimum height requirements.
Common Sizes:
- Trees: 1 foot, 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet
- Shrubs & Perennials: 1 foot, 18 inches, 2 feet
Important Notes
Container Volume Specifications
- Trade Gallon Standard: Our containers follow industry-standard "trade gallon" specifications established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z60.1) for nursery stock
- Volume Variations: Actual soil volume may vary due to plant root systems and growing medium settlement
- Age Indicators: Container size primarily indicates plant age and maturity rather than liquid volume equivalents
Growing Conditions
- Plant size can vary based on variety and growing conditions
- Container size helps indicate plant maturity and establishment level
- Larger containers generally mean more established root systems and faster landscape establishment
Seasonal Availability
- Bare root plants are available seasonally when dormant
- Container plants are available throughout the growing season
- Specific varieties may have limited availability in certain sizes
Questions?
For questions about specific plant sizes or availability, please contact our plant experts who can help you choose the right size for your landscape needs.
Plant Highlights
Variegated Japanese Pittosporum highlights at a glance!
Specifications
Specifications
-
Brand
-
Botanical Name
-
Growing Zones
-
Mature Height
-
Mature Spread
-
Sun ExposureFull Sun, Partial Shade
-
Moisture
-
Soil
-
Growth RateMedium
-
Flower Color
-
Fall Color
-
Pollinator Friendly
-
Fragrant
-
Pruning Time
-
Bloom PeriodEarly Spring, Late Spring

Growing Zones
Variegated Japanese Pittosporum
Add timeless elegance to your landscape with the Variegated Japanese Pittosporum (Pittosporum tobira 'Variegatum'), a striking broadleaf evergreen shrub prized for its dense, variegated foliage and low-maintenance charm!
The creamy white edges of its glossy green leaves brighten any garden, and its compact, rounded form makes it versatile for a variety of uses. This hardy shrub also produces clusters of small, white blooms that smell strong and sweet in spring! Adding an extra layer of appeal to your outdoor space.
Going by many names like Australian Laurel, Japanese Mock Orange, and Japanese Cheesewood, Pittosporum is hardy throughout USDA planting zones 9 through 11, reaching 6-8 feet tall and wide.
Order your Variegated Japanese Pittosporum today at Nature Hills Nursery and bring enduring beauty to your garden!
Why Choose Variegated Japanese Pittosporum?
The Variegated Japanese Pittosporum is a true garden classic, combining beauty, resilience, and versatility. Its evergreen foliage ensures year-round interest, while its easy-care nature makes it a favorite for gardeners of all experience levels.
Whether used as a low hedge, a striking container plant, or a foundation shrub, it elevates your landscape with sophistication and charm.
Key Features of Variegated Japanese Pittosporum
- Variegated Foliage: Creamy white margins on dark green leaves create an eye-catching contrast.
- Compact Growth Habit: Grows 6–8 feet tall and wide but can be easily pruned to maintain a smaller size.
- Fragrant Flowers: Spring brings clusters of small, orange-blossom-scented white blooms.
- Low-Maintenance: Drought-tolerant and pest-resistant, perfect for easy-care gardens.
- Versatile Uses: Works beautifully as a hedge, border, or accent plant.
- Coastal Sites: Pittosporum handles salt spray, salty air, and sandy seaside conditions.
Landscaping Uses for Variegated Japanese Pittosporum
This versatile shrub is perfect for a variety of garden applications:
- Formal Hedges: Its dense, tidy growth makes it ideal for creating privacy or defining spaces.
- Foundation Plantings: Adds elegance and year-round interest near your home or patio.
- Accent Plant: The variegated foliage stands out as a focal point in mixed borders or garden beds.
- Coastal Gardens: Thrives in salty air and sandy soils, making it a go-to for seaside landscapes.
- Container Gardens: Perfect for pots or planters, adding a touch of sophistication to patios or entryways.
Planting and Care For Variegated Japanese Pittosporum
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade; performs well in a variety of lighting conditions.
Soil: Adapts to most well-draining soils, including sandy and clay types.
Watering: Drought-tolerant once established, but water regularly during the first growing season to help roots settle.
Pruning: Prune as needed to shape or maintain size. Light trimming encourages denser growth and a neat appearance.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring for optimal growth and health.
Hardiness: Thrives in USDA zones 8–10, tolerating mild frosts and hot summers.
Variegated Japanese Pittosporum Available At NatureHills.com!
The Variegated Japanese Pittosporum is a true garden classic, combining beauty, resilience, and versatility. Its evergreen foliage ensures year-round interest, while its easy-care nature makes it a favorite for gardeners of all experience levels.
Brighten your garden with the year-round beauty and versatility of the Variegated Japanese Pittosporum! Order your Variegated Japanese Pittosporum today at Nature Hills Nursery and bring enduring beauty to your garden!
Frequently Asked Questions About Variegated Pittosporum
How tall does the Variegated Japanese Pittosporum grow?
It typically grows 6–8 feet tall and wide but can be pruned to maintain a smaller size.
Can this shrub handle coastal conditions?
Yes! It thrives in salty air and sandy soils, making it ideal for seaside gardens.
When does the Variegated Japanese Pittosporum bloom?
Small, fragrant white flowers appear in spring, adding seasonal interest.
Is Pittosporum suitable for container gardening?
Absolutely! Its compact growth and attractive foliage make it perfect for pots and planters.
Does Pittosporum need frequent pruning?
Not necessarily. It has a naturally tidy growth habit, but light pruning can help maintain its shape.