The New Zealand Laurel (Pittosporum tenuifolium) is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to New Zealand. It is recognized for its glossy, often wavy-edged leaves, which come in various shades, including green, purple, and variegated forms. While primarily an outdoor ornamental plant, this article guides you through cultivating Pittosporum tenuifolium indoors, allowing you to enjoy its distinctive foliage.
Is New Zealand Laurel Suitable for Indoors?
The New Zealand Laurel grows as an outdoor shrub or small tree. Despite its outdoor origins, Pittosporum tenuifolium exhibits adaptability, making indoor cultivation possible. Many grow it indoors as a decorative houseplant. While not a typical tropical houseplant, it can thrive indoors when provided with specific conditions and consistent care.
Indoor Care Essentials
Light
New Zealand Laurel requires bright, indirect light indoors. Place the plant near a south or west-facing window to ensure sufficient light without direct, harsh sun exposure that could scorch its leaves. If natural light is limited, supplemental artificial lighting, such as grow lights, can meet its requirements.
Watering
Proper watering is crucial for an indoor New Zealand Laurel. It prefers consistent moisture, but allow the soil to partially dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so check soil moisture before watering. Conversely, underwatering can cause leaf drop.
Soil Requirements
The ideal potting mix for Pittosporum tenuifolium should be well-draining, rich in organic matter, and have a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging. Incorporating compost or other organic materials enhances drainage and provides nutrients.
Temperature and Humidity
New Zealand Laurel prefers moderate indoor temperatures, thriving between 68°F and 105°F (20°C to 41°C). Keep it above 50°F (10°C) to prevent cold damage. This plant appreciates a humid environment. To increase humidity, use a pebble tray, mist the foliage, or utilize a room humidifier.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring and summer), feed your New Zealand Laurel with a balanced liquid fertilizer. An N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is suitable. Reduce or stop fertilization during the plant’s dormant period in fall and winter. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth or leaf burn, so follow product instructions.
Maintaining Your Indoor New Zealand Laurel
Pruning for Indoor Growth
Pruning an indoor New Zealand Laurel maintains its size and shape, encourages bushiness, and promotes overall plant health. Remove any dead, damaged, or leggy growth, which can occur when the plant stretches towards light. Pruning encourages outward growth for healthier, thicker foliage. Heavy pruning is best in late winter or early spring; light trimming can be done as needed.
Common Indoor Pests and Problems
New Zealand Laurel can be susceptible to common indoor plant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Signs include distorted new growth, a whitish substance, or small insects clustering on the plant. Other issues might include leaf spot or general leaf discoloration. Regularly inspect your plant and address issues promptly with horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps.
Potting and Repotting
Repotting your indoor New Zealand Laurel is needed every two to three years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by slow growth or roots appearing from drainage holes. Spring is the best time for repotting. Select a new pot that is slightly larger, about 20% wider, than the previous one. Terracotta pots are beneficial as they promote better drainage. During repotting, use fresh, well-draining potting mix and gently loosen any matted roots.
Safety and Placement
New Zealand Laurel (Pittosporum tenuifolium) contains saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal irritation if ingested. Saponins are more toxic to some animals. Place the plant in areas inaccessible to pets and small children. When choosing a location, consider areas with good air circulation to deter fungal issues and avoid direct drafts, which can cause stress.