Landscape Uses
Style Tags
South Florida Growing Guide
Light Requirements
Water Requirements
Once established (12–18 months), Japanese Pittosporum is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Low-moderate water. 1-2x per week dry season once established. Very drought tolerant. Excellent once established.
Soil and Fertilization
Fertilizer: Balanced 8-2-12 slow-release.
Schedule: February and September balanced slow-release fertilizer.
Salt Tolerance
- Mature Height
- 6–15 ft
- Mature Width
- 5–10 ft
- Growth Rate
- moderate
- Water Demand
- 2/10
- Florida Grade
- Florida #1
- Installed Cost
- $$$
- USDA Zones
- 8, 9, 10a, 10b
- FLEPPC Status
- None
- Iguana Rating
- 6/10
Where to Buy in South Florida
Find Japanese Pittosporum at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Japanese Pittosporum grow in South Florida?
Japanese Pittosporum has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.
Is Japanese Pittosporum safe for pets?
Japanese Pittosporum is not safe for pets. Pittosporum seeds and possibly leaves mildly toxic to pets. Precautionary disclosure to pet owners.
How much water does Japanese Pittosporum need in South Florida?
Low water needs (2/10). Once established (12–18 months), Japanese Pittosporum is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Can Japanese Pittosporum tolerate salt air in South Florida?
Japanese Pittosporum has moderate salt tolerance (6/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.
Is Japanese Pittosporum available in Miami-Dade County?
In Miami-Dade County, Japanese Pittosporum is classified as: allowed. Allowed.
County Availability in South Florida
Miami-Dade County
Allowed. NOT FLEPPC listed.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.
View County Guide →Broward County
Allowed. Good Broward formal hedge alternative to Ligustrum.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.
View County Guide →Palm Beach County
Allowed. Outstanding cold hardiness — very reliable throughout all Palm Beach County.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.
View County Guide →Collier County
Allowed. Good Collier formal shrub.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.
View County Guide →Monroe County
Allowed but less commonly available in Monroe County..
USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.
View County Guide →Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.
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Ask about Japanese Pittosporum
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