Ralph's desertwillow

Pittosporum ralphii

Physical Characteristics

Pittosporum ralphii is an evergreen Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

New Zealand.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Hedge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

This plant contains saponins[152, 154]. Saponins are found in many foods, such as some beans, and although they are fairly toxic to people they are poorly absorbed by the body and most pass straight through without any problem. They are also broken down if the food is thoroughly cooked for a long time. Saponins are much more toxic to some creatures, such as fish, and hunting tribes have traditionally put large quantities of them in streams, lakes etc in order to stupefy or kill the fish[K].