Pittosporum Tenuifolium Irish Luck Kohuhu

Pittosporum Tenuifolium Irish Luck, commonly known as Kohuhu, is an elegant evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green foliage and reliable year-round performance. Native to New Zealand, the Pittosporum Tenuifolium species does best in a sunny, sheltered spot where it can display its rich colour and fine texture to full effect. Its dark stems are neatly clothed in small, glossy leaves, creating a refined and compact habit that makes it especially useful in contemporary gardens.

In late spring and early summer, Pittosporum Irish Luck produces small, fragrant flowers that may not be immediately eye-catching but add an unexpected layer of charm. These are followed by dark grey seed capsules, which provide additional interest later in the season. Versatile and dependable, this variety can be used as hedging, evergreen screening or a stand-alone feature plant, offering structure and form throughout the year.

When compared with other Pittosporum Tenuifolium varieties, Irish Luck is noted for its refined dark green foliage and neat habit. Irene Paterson for example, is more distinctive with variegated white and green leaves that develop pink tinges in colder weather, while Green Elf is a dwarf form with bright green foliage and a compact, rounded shape. Irish Luck offers a more understated, sophisticated look, making it especially effective where a darker, evergreen backdrop is required.

Height and Width of Pittosporum Tenuifolium:

Pittosporum Irish Luck is moderately fast-growing and will typically reach a height of 2–3 metres with a spread of 1.5–2 metres. With light pruning, it can be shaped easily to maintain a dense, tidy form, or allowed to grow more freely for a natural effect.

How hardy is Pittosporum Tenuifolium?

This evergreen shrub is hardy in most parts of the UK, though it performs best in sheltered gardens, particularly in colder regions where protection from severe frost and strong winds is advisable. Once established, it is tolerant of drought and generally low-maintenance.

Uses in Garden and/or Landscape:

Pittosporum Irish Luck is a versatile plant ideal for hedging, screening, or adding evergreen structure to mixed borders. It also makes a striking specimen shrub in modern and coastal gardens, where its compact dark foliage provides excellent contrast against lighter or more colourful planting. Its neat form makes it a popular choice for contemporary landscapes and formal settings.

Care Tips:

Plant in fertile, well-drained soil in a sunny, sheltered spot. Although tolerant of partial shade, the best foliage colour and growth are achieved with good light levels. Prune lightly after flowering or in late summer to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. A mulch in spring will help retain soil moisture and improve vigour. Avoid planting in areas prone to harsh, cold winds.