Pittosporum Tenuifolium 'Golfball'

Golf Ball Kohuhu / Golf Ball Pittosporum

Botanical Name: Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Golfball'
Family: Pittosporaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub

Overview

Compact, dense and naturally ball-shaped, ‘Golf Ball’ is made for neat, low-maintenance structure in Adelaide and South Australian gardens. It holds its rounded form with minimal clipping, pushing fresh lime-green tips that mature to glossy mid-green. Small, chocolate-purple flowers appear in late spring–early summer and are lightly scented, especially in the evening.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.6–1.0 m H × 0.6–1.0 m W (naturally rounded)
• Growth Rate: 15-25 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Fine, fresh lime-green new growth maturing to glossy mid-green; tight, small leaves for a clipped look without heavy pruning
• Flowers: Small deep purple-brown, lightly scented blooms late spring–early summer
• Seasonal Interest: Year-round evergreen structure with flushes of bright new growth; lightly fragrant flowers in the warmer months
• Wildlife Value: Attracts Bees (when in flower); general habitat for small insects
• Tolerance: Drought-Tolerant (once established), Heat-Tolerant, Wind-Tolerant, Coastal-Tolerant (sheltered), Frost hardy (light), Clay-Tolerant if well-drained
• Planting Density: Low hedge/edging: 0.5–0.6 m apart. Mass plant: 3–5 plants/m². Specimen: 0.8–1.0 m from paths/walls
• Pet Friendly: Generally regarded as non-toxic to pets

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (best density in full sun or bright light)
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or improved clay
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Light clip 2–3×/year to keep perfectly round; mulch in spring; balanced feed in early spring
• Lifespan: 15-25 years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate & Mediterranean SA, including coastal Adelaide
• Soil pH: Acid, Neutral, Alkaline (performs best slightly acidic to neutral with good drainage)

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Formal edging or low hedge along paths, drives and garden rooms—crisp lines with minimal clipping
• Repeat spheres through mixed borders for rhythm and year-round structure in Adelaide gardens
• Container or courtyard feature—pairs well with gravel, pavers and modern plantings

Why You Will Love It

‘Golf Ball’ gives you a perfectly neat, evergreen mound with almost no fuss—ideal for South Australian gardens needing structure without constant pruning. It’s tough, compact and stylish, offering subtle fragrance in season and a polished look all year.