Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Golf Ball’

Black matipo, Tawhiwhi 'Golf Ball'

(2 customer reviews)

From: £41.95

Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Golf Ball’ is a compact and evergreen shrub, ideal for small gardens and hedging. With its dense, rounded form and attractive dark green foliage, it adds charm and structure to landscapes.

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Origin: New Zealand, cultivar of horticultural origin
Genus: Pittosporum
Species / Cultivar: tenuifolium 'Golf Ball'
Common Name: Black matipo, Tawhiwhi 'Golf Ball'

Plant Biography

Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Golf Ball’ is a cultivar of Pittosporum tenuifolium, native to New Zealand. The exact origin of ‘Golf Ball’ is not widely documented, but it likely emerged through selective breeding to enhance its compact, rounded form. This delightful variety gained popularity in the horticultural trade due to its small size and attractive appearance.

With its evergreen nature and dense dark green foliage, ‘Golf Ball’ quickly became a favourite for small gardens, hedging, and container planting. Today, it remains a cherished and widely grown shrub, admired for its versatility and ornamental value in gardens worldwide.

Golf Ball grows near forest edges, in coastal and lower mountain areas and can cope really well with windy positions and poor soils.

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Golf Ball'
Soil: Well drained
Soil that does not show much signs of moisture, either visibly or when handled.
Growth Rate: Medium
Expect to see moderate growth during growing season.
Water Requirement: Medium
Once it is established, this plant is likely to only require watering during drier periods.
Maintenance: Low
Minimal skill or input needed beyond the basics, a very independent plant.
Situation: Full Sun to Part Shade
Enjoys direct sun most of the day, but tolerant of fewer sunlit hours or light dappling.
Eventual Height: 0.5 - 1.0m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 0.5 - 1.0m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.
Hardiness: Hardy
Survives unprotected in an average winter. May need protection in extreme long frosts.
Habit: Evergreen
Always in leaf throughout the year. It won't lose all its leaves at any one time.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

Caring for Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Golf Ball’ is straightforward. Plant it in well-draining soil and provide a spot with full sun to partial shade. Once established, it is drought-tolerant, though regular watering during dry spells will benefit its growth. ‘Golf Ball’ requires minimal pruning to maintain its compact shape. Fertilise in spring to promote healthy growth. This evergreen shrub is relatively pest-resistant and low-maintenance, making it an ideal choice for small gardens, borders, or as an attractive hedge, offering year-round beauty and structure to your landscape.

This cultivar has been bred to have a low-growing habit which hugs the ground and should require minimal pruning.

It may require protection in cold winters with a fleece jacket to keep frost away.

Plant trivia

In its native environment, the plant's resin is collected by the Māori people and it's used to scent houses and has been used for medicinal purposes for various ailments.

2 customer reviews for Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Golf Ball’

Arrived in great condition, very pleased.

Karlien (verified owner)

Excellent plants quick despatch and good communication on plant shipment – very impressed!

Susan (verified owner)