Pittosporum Care Guide

Pittosporum is a classic and beloved greenery in the floral world. With its glossy, oval leaves arranged in beautiful rosette-like clusters, it adds a lush, full texture to any arrangement. It's one of the most versatile and reliable greeneries available, working equally well in romantic garden-style bouquets, modern centerpieces, and large event installations. Florists love it for its hardiness and its ability to complement virtually any flower.

Like all of our products, pittosporum is not ready to display the moment it arrives. Give it a little time to hydrate and settle in after its journey and it will look its best.

A Note on Varieties

We carry several varieties of pittosporum, including green and variegated (green and white). Each has its own unique look but the care is the same for all varieties.

What You'll Need

• A clean vase or bucket
• Fresh, cool water
• Sharp scissors or floral shears

Step-by-Step Care Instructions

1. Unpack promptly. Remove your pittosporum from the packaging as soon as it arrives and let it breathe.
2. Trim the stems. Cut 1 to 2 inches off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle. Pittosporum stems can be woody, so use sharp, sturdy shears for a clean cut.
3. Remove lower foliage. Strip any leaves that would sit below the waterline to keep the water clean and prevent bacterial buildup.
4. Fill your vase. Use clean, cool water. Pittosporum is hardy and does not require floral preservative, though it won't hurt.
5. Change the water every 2 days. Re-trim the stems each time to keep them drinking well.
6. Keep in a cool spot. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources for the longest vase life.

Pro Tips

• Woody stems need extra care: Because pittosporum stems can be woody, re-cutting them regularly is especially important. A fresh cut every time you change the water makes a big difference in how well they drink.
• One of the hardiest greeneries: Pittosporum is known for being exceptionally sturdy and long-lasting. It holds up well out of water for several hours, making it a great choice for event installations and garlands.
• Pairs with everything: Its rich, glossy foliage complements virtually any flower and any color palette, from soft pastels to bold, vibrant designs.

Florist Secret

For woody pittosporum stems, after trimming at an angle, use your shears to make a small vertical split up the center of the stem base, about half an inch deep. This extra surface area dramatically improves water uptake and helps the foliage stay lush and hydrated much longer. It's a simple step that makes a big difference, especially for large arrangements where you need the greenery to last!

How Long Will They Last?

With proper care, pittosporum typically lasts around 7 to 10 days in a vase, making it one of the longer-lasting greenery options we carry. With extra attention to fresh water and cool temperatures, it may last even longer.