Australian cheesewood

Australian cheesewood

Pittosporum undulatum

Common Name:

Australian cheesewood

Scientific Name:

Pittosporum undulatum


Alternative common names:

Description:

Evergreen shrub or broadly conical tree up to 12m high. Dark green, shiny leavers tapering at both ends and usually wavy margins at the end of the branches. Fragrant white flowers in terminal clusters from August to September. Showy, orange turning brown capsules. 

Additional Information


Where does this species come from?

Eastern Australia.

What is its invasive status in South Africa?

Existing legislation: CARA 2002 - Category 1 NEMBA - Category 1b

Where in South Africa is it a problem?

Western Cape.

How does it spread?

Seed dispersal.

Why is it a problem?

Competes with and replaces indigenous species. Indigenous birds might neglect the dispersal of indigenous plants as a consequence of their preference for the fruits of this alien species.

What does it look like?

Leaves:Dark green, shiny leavers tapering at both ends.
Flowers:Fragrant white flowers in terminal clusters from August to September.
Fruit/seeds:Showy, orange turning brown capsules.

Does the plant have any uses?

Ornament, hedging, shelter.

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