Tawhiwhi (Pittosporum tenuifolium)

Family: Pittosporaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Pittosporum tenuifolium is an evergreen Tree growing to 7 m (23ft) by 4 m (13ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Gum - fragrant. It is obtained by bruising the bark or by incision. — It is obtained by bruising the bark or by incision.

Habitat & North American Range

Coastal to lower montane forests, North and South Islands, especially from North Cape and southwards. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)