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Variegated Pittosporum (Pittosporum tobira 'Variegata') growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Variegated Pittosporum — South Florida Plant Guide

Pittosporum tobira 'Variegata'

Family: Pittosporaceae · Shrub

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

foundation plantingvariegated accentsemi formal hedgefragrant garden

Style Tags

variegatedformaltraditionalfragrantbright

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial SunPartial Shade

Water Requirements

Low2/10

Once established (12–18 months), Variegated Pittosporum is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Low-moderate water. 1-2x per week dry season once established.

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestoneloamclay

Fertilizer: Balanced 8-2-12 slow-release.

Schedule: February and September balanced slow-release fertilizer.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (5/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
512 ft
Mature Width
48 ft
Growth Rate
slow-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 Variegated Pittosporum at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Variegated Pittosporum grow in South Florida?

Variegated Pittosporum has a slow-moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Variegated Pittosporum safe for pets?

Variegated Pittosporum is not safe for pets. Same mild pet toxicity as species. Precautionary disclosure.

How much water does Variegated Pittosporum need in South Florida?

Low water needs (2/10). Once established (12–18 months), Variegated Pittosporum is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Variegated Pittosporum tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Variegated Pittosporum has moderate salt tolerance (5/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is Variegated Pittosporum available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Variegated Pittosporum is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed. NOT FLEPPC.

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed..

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Outstanding cold hardiness — very reliable Palm Beach County.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed..

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Limited availability in Keys.

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 Variegated Pittosporum

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.