See a fair bit of 'Silver Sheen' here on the east coast of Australia, though it might not be as popular as it was a few years ago. Super cool presentation. Loved how you wrapped in all those different uses for it, and its key attributes. Also very impressed that you backed it up with so much live footage of those various uses. You really showcased it well! Lots of hard work to do that. Thumbs up!
Thanks so much for the kind words!.. very encouraging. Yes it’s hard to get all that b roll and put it all together. But I love what I do so it rarely feels like work. Cheers 😎
fell in love w/this from my walks in The Flats of Beverly Hills. Finally tracked it down at a local nursery. Thanks so much for all your commentary and tips! will check out your site, of course!
I like how you break everything down with all the information I also enjoy how you focus on one particular plant , tree or shrub at a time plus all the visuals really helps. Thank you
Thanks Romy! I’m really glad the info is helpful...and great to hear the encouraging words. It’s so very much appreciated!! Feel free to reach out with any plant/landscape Q’s any time 😎
I have hedges of this everywhere in my garden in Aus. Only issue I get is trying to get the bottom of the plant to thicken up. It takes a long time here with very dry soils. They look great though.
Wow you must be doing something right! I'm in 9b too but it's taken mine 4 years to get to 6 foot tall. Been fertilizing and giving some more water, now they are finally taking off
Yeah these can be suuuuper fast, or moderate, depending on soil type. They love loamy nutritious soil that’s well drained. Also could be a light condition why some grow quicker than others. There’s so many factors!
I like the density and fullness of the hedge at time 3:45 in the video. The pictures in other sections in the video the plant looked sparse. So now I am confused on if I should use this as a screen. Is it going to get full and dense like at point 3:45 in the video or is it going to be more transparent and leggy as shown at time 3:36 or 4:11? Help.
It all depends… soil type, nutrients, how close you plant them, sun/shade condition, and pruning. They do the a few miles from the coast where temps are more mild. They may have more trouble inland in terms of growth. They also do. It like reflected heat. They’re somewhat temperamental when not in optimal conditions.
My HOA just removed a huge hedge of juniper along my 30' wall/fence shared with HOA property that gave me great privacy. It is a 1.5' tall wall with 4' iron fencing on top. The Juniper was about 10' tall. So with the loss of the Juniper, everyone can see into my yard. I am on the main 4 lane road of the subdivision They are now going to plant a row of Silver Sheen up against and along that wall. How big does the trunk get? Will it eventually push against the wall foundation causing any uplift or cracking? How invasive are the roots? I don;t want it coming up on my side of the wall. Thank you.
Hey! Silver Sheen does not have invasive roots and generally not an issue to plant next to structures/hardscape. It doesn’t like reflected heat so make sure the wall is not facing hot afternoon sun. Another option is Podocarpus gracilior or Carolina Cherry Laurel. Hope this helps!
Ha! I got this video again 2 years later. I am a diehard. I won’t give up on my pittosporum tenufolium. I’m on my 3rd or 4th batch. 😬 I have learned to not over water during the hottest months. Maybe this year will be milder. I’m using fewer since doing succulent tapestries at either end of my front wall. Love the way they sway and shimmer silver in the afternoon breeze. 🙏🏼❤️
I am in the Western part of Washington State just south of Seattle. My understanding it that this version of Pittosporum (Silver Sheen) will grow in my zone of 8b. Can you confirm that these will work. I had them in California and I loved them. I also especially like that they do not attract rodents to nest in them. Thanks for your expertise and advise.
@@ellde4761 1.2 metres or 1200mm, 50 inches, I plant about 1m away cause I want a hedge if you don't want a hedge I would put them between 1.2m - 1.5m away from each other does that help?
I live in Zone 10b, sunset zone 19 in the SFV. I really like the Silver Sheen but I am hesitant to buy it because I have read that they suddenly die. Is there a way to avoid this die-off? I have an area in between a patio and fence facing west where I need some shade and privacy. The area gets sun most of the day. Is there another similar airy plant I can use (Silver Magic?)? Thank you!
I am in SFV and have been experimenting with Pittosporum tenuifolium (Silver Sheen) for the past 15 years as this is the most beautiful shrub I've ever seen. In this hot and dry climate, it can grow very well if you are careful. Plant them anywhere that is not close to a wall. 100% of mine died that were next to walls. I believe the heat it too intense. The same batch that were planted not near walls grew great. Also, don't believe the watering guidance about low to medium water. They need a lot of water. Deep water weekly and they will grow fast and strong. Don't get too tricky with drip. Soak the area, and soak it deep. As far as the sudden death or random death syndrome, it's true. I watched over a dozen die off in one summer month. I watered them like crazy but he heat from the wall they were planted next to was too intense. I used to feel the leaves around 4pm and they were hot and eventually started turning yellow. Once they start turning yellow, it's over. They can not be saved.
The little green elf looks just like this better I think grow from 1to 2 and a half meters tops. I have two I love them so much I'm making them a hedge. Look for ten more the leaf's are so small that the small beautiful smelling brown flowers stand out in a way they dont on other types. With the little green elf you still get the open screen with a silver reflection like look you get with the sliver one in this video.
@@RootedTheory video/audio was not synced very well, i just had to not look at his face :) it was driving me bananas *maybe was connection at the time? Just eats her again and it is good now* Wish this would grow in Zone 7 to 8
how big of a pot would it need when it grows big but I don’t have a Pittosporum tenuifolium I only have Pittosporum silver sheen but it would still be good in a pot?
Thank you so much for your clear and concise description of this plant! Felling love it it's contrast of dark stem and light leaves!. I've heard you should not attempt to change a plant's make up, but could this plant be kept on the smaller side? Under six feet? (Neighbor issues, ya know..) Thanks so much!!
Hi Jodie!..glad u liked the vid! Yes you can definitely keep the Silver Sheen a bit smaller, I’d say 6-7 feet. Any shorter and it may rake on awkward growth. Make sure to give it protection from afternoon sun if you are in a hotter climate. Hope it works out! D
Thank you so much for the super useful, packed with information video - totally fell in love with silver sheen! I'd love to plant them by a stucco wall and have them grow tall to provide some privacy. The area I'd plant is pretty much in shade though - we may get 2-3 hours sunlight - would that work? Thank you!
My pleasure! So yes these can grow in partial shade...however they tend to not grow as dense. So if you were looking for 100% privacy, they would probably not do that for you in this case. But would still provide some coverage and beauty!
@@RootedTheory thank you for your quick response! I'm kinda binge watching your channel since I just discovered it, lol. Is there a shrub that you would recommend for shade? We are in Santa Monica - there is huge, beautiful tree on the street that provides us the shade. Thanks again for your time!
Sure! This plant has a relatively non-invasive root system. However you still don’t want it too close for growth purposes. Keep it at least a couple feet away or more.
How big of pots do you need for a silver sheen to still grow pretty tall? At least 10-12 feet? Will 25" wide by 28" tall planters be big enough? How big would they grow in this size pot?
That pot size should suffice reach nearly its max height, so long as the potting soil is good, drainage is good, and it has ongoing nutrients. It can reach about 10-12’ in this condition.
There’s several factors such as soil type, season, etc, but I generally recommend a thorough soaking (complete saturation) every day for the first week or two, then taper back to every other day. But always keep an eye on the foliage for wilt.
@@RootedTheory Thank you. The soil is part clay and we are in zone 9 in CA. I've noticed some yellowing so was just wondering if I was over or under watering. Sounds like i might have been under wateriing
Ok. Yes it sounds that way.. they generally like to receive lots of water to establish. Once a day usually for the first few weeks, and always monitor.
@@RootedTheory Once they are established (1 year old), how often would you recommend watering during spring/summer? They survived the first year and we didn't need to water during rainy season, but now in spring/summer we are watering and some leaves are turning yellow with brown spots. Just again not sure if we are under watering or over watering! :(
@@RootedTheory I have perfect spot and a few hydrangeas that I wanted to move off our deck and plant there (in front of Pittosporum) but wasn't sure how they would do. My first thought was English Lavender, but not positive if that would be a good companion.
+climber6916 Glad it was helpful! I’ve seen the Siver Sheen many times up in the foothills...Monrovia, Pasadena, Glendale, etc. and it seems to do fine. My recommendation would be to keep it away from south-facing walls (reflected heat) and a little protection from the afternoon hot sun.
Hi! This may be a little tender for the Bay Area. With cold wind, it will definitely show some damage. But given the perfect area protected from the elements it may do ok.
Generally it sounds ok. Just keep in mind they tend to get wide at the base and can get up to 12-15 feet tall or so. So just make sure to give em room!
They are lovely plants. I have atleast 6 of them and they are all only about 40cm high but i have already shaped them using the scissors so they are looking like small boxes (so to speak) 🙂Maybe i should have let them grow atleast 60cm or knee high and then trimmer/shaped them.
If they are protected from reflected heat and afternoon sun they should be ok, but the colder winters would potentially be more detrimental. I would shoot for a different option.
Hi there, thanks for the video. I was wondering if this plant shed. I found a perfect corner for it but I have a neighbor who does complain about leaves on her property, will it be a problem? Thanks!
Typically not toxic to touch, but some folks with sensitive may experience irritation or rash after brushing against it. The sap leaves and stems can have this affect.
Planted 4 five months ago, looked healthy last week, now one dead all of a sudden. Researched this and appears to be common and for unknown reasons. Now i’m lost as what to do.
Yes this is something that happens with Silver Sheens, usually in the warmer season. If they have some protection from afternoon heat they tend to do better.
Yes that’s true...they are a little finicky for sure. They’re best in more mild climates where temps don’t get over 90 too often. They also don’t like reflected heat and appreciate some dappled shade in the afternoon. Good luck on the next batch!
@@RootedTheory I am just discovering this plant now. I like a lot of its characteristics, BUT is this a good candidate for the SE. Specifically south of Atlanta (near airport) Zone 8-9, and project is on a rooftop, and these will be in planters. can they be kept small by pruning? or should I be looking for other options???? thanks so much
Saved a couple of these from the skip /dumpster a few years back. Now sat in my garden looking glorious!!
See a fair bit of 'Silver Sheen' here on the east coast of Australia, though it might not be as popular as it was a few years ago. Super cool presentation. Loved how you wrapped in all those different uses for it, and its key attributes. Also very impressed that you backed it up with so much live footage of those various uses. You really showcased it well! Lots of hard work to do that. Thumbs up!
Thanks so much for the kind words!.. very encouraging. Yes it’s hard to get all that b roll and put it all together. But I love what I do so it rarely feels like work. Cheers 😎
fell in love w/this from my walks in The Flats of Beverly Hills. Finally tracked it down at a local nursery. Thanks so much for all your commentary and tips! will check out your site, of course!
I like how you break everything down with all the information I also enjoy how you focus on one particular plant , tree or shrub at a time plus all the visuals really helps. Thank you
Thanks Romy! I’m really glad the info is helpful...and great to hear the encouraging words. It’s so very much appreciated!! Feel free to reach out with any plant/landscape Q’s any time 😎
Just found your channel and I'm so glad I did. Looking forward to learning more info for/about my CA garden.
Awesome thanks Tiff!!!
I have hedges of this everywhere in my garden in Aus. Only issue I get is trying to get the bottom of the plant to thicken up. It takes a long time here with very dry soils. They look great though.
Fabulous! Practical, beautiful and well thought out videos.
Thanks so much for the kind words 🙏🏼🙏🏼😎🌱🌱🌱
I planted a row of it last year after watching your video. I was shocked that they grew from 5 in to 6 ft in just one year! Btw, I'm in zone 9b.
Wow you must be doing something right! I'm in 9b too but it's taken mine 4 years to get to 6 foot tall.
Been fertilizing and giving some more water, now they are finally taking off
Yeah these can be suuuuper fast, or moderate, depending on soil type. They love loamy nutritious soil that’s well drained. Also could be a light condition why some grow quicker than others. There’s so many factors!
@@RootedTheory no nutrition in this rocky shale. Once the roots get down they can tap into an acquafir.
Good to know, I'm in zone 9 as well.
Great video but I wish you went into more detail about the care. I have lost one to root rot I need more advice
I like the density and fullness of the hedge at time 3:45 in the video. The pictures in other sections in the video the plant looked sparse. So now I am confused on if I should use this as a screen. Is it going to get full and dense like at point 3:45 in the video or is it going to be more transparent and leggy as shown at time 3:36 or 4:11? Help.
It all depends… soil type, nutrients, how close you plant them, sun/shade condition, and pruning. They do the a few miles from the coast where temps are more mild. They may have more trouble inland in terms of growth. They also do. It like reflected heat. They’re somewhat temperamental when not in optimal conditions.
My HOA just removed a huge hedge of juniper along my 30' wall/fence shared with HOA property that gave me great privacy. It is a 1.5' tall wall with 4' iron fencing on top. The Juniper was about 10' tall. So with the loss of the Juniper, everyone can see into my yard. I am on the main 4 lane road of the subdivision They are now going to plant a row of Silver Sheen up against and along that wall. How big does the trunk get? Will it eventually push against the wall foundation causing any uplift or cracking? How invasive are the roots? I don;t want it coming up on my side of the wall. Thank you.
Hey! Silver Sheen does not have invasive roots and generally not an issue to plant next to structures/hardscape. It doesn’t like reflected heat so make sure the wall is not facing hot afternoon sun. Another option is Podocarpus gracilior or Carolina Cherry Laurel. Hope this helps!
@@RootedTheory thank you.
Hi there. Do you have a video on how to prune pittosporum? :-)
Ha! I got this video again 2 years later. I am a diehard. I won’t give up on my pittosporum tenufolium. I’m on my 3rd or 4th batch. 😬 I have learned to not over water during the hottest months. Maybe this year will be milder. I’m using fewer since doing succulent tapestries at either end of my front wall. Love the way they sway and shimmer silver in the afternoon breeze. 🙏🏼❤️
I am in the Western part of Washington State just south of Seattle. My understanding it that this version of Pittosporum (Silver Sheen) will grow in my zone of 8b. Can you confirm that these will work. I had them in California and I loved them. I also especially like that they do not attract rodents to nest in them. Thanks for your expertise and advise.
Thank you so much! Very knowledgeable and informative.
Glad this was helpful for you!... thanks for watching!!
- Dom
How many feet apart should I plant them if I want that loose, informal, and lacey look against my fence ?
I don’t necessarily want that tree look, but I also dont want that tight hedge look either
1.2m
@@Will.i.am123 What exactly is 1.2m? To give plants that open and loose look. Thanks
@@ellde4761 1.2 metres or 1200mm, 50 inches, I plant about 1m away cause I want a hedge if you don't want a hedge I would put them between 1.2m - 1.5m away from each other does that help?
Great video! I love the look of it, so airy. Is there a smaller version that is also airy?
Green elf is a smaller one
I live in Zone 10b, sunset zone 19 in the SFV. I really like the Silver Sheen but I am hesitant to buy it because I have read that they suddenly die. Is there a way to avoid this die-off? I have an area in between a patio and fence facing west where I need some shade and privacy. The area gets sun most of the day. Is there another similar airy plant I can use (Silver Magic?)? Thank you!
I am in SFV and have been experimenting with Pittosporum tenuifolium (Silver Sheen) for the past 15 years as this is the most beautiful shrub I've ever seen. In this hot and dry climate, it can grow very well if you are careful. Plant them anywhere that is not close to a wall. 100% of mine died that were next to walls. I believe the heat it too intense. The same batch that were planted not near walls grew great. Also, don't believe the watering guidance about low to medium water. They need a lot of water. Deep water weekly and they will grow fast and strong. Don't get too tricky with drip. Soak the area, and soak it deep. As far as the sudden death or random death syndrome, it's true. I watched over a dozen die off in one summer month. I watered them like crazy but he heat from the wall they were planted next to was too intense. I used to feel the leaves around 4pm and they were hot and eventually started turning yellow. Once they start turning yellow, it's over. They can not be saved.
Love this plant however is there another that isn’t quite as tall ?
There’s a cultivar called ‘Golf Ball’ which stays short and round. I’ve used that one and it has done well in Southern California.
The little green elf looks just like this better I think grow from 1to 2 and a half meters tops. I have two I love them so much I'm making them a hedge. Look for ten more the leaf's are so small that the small beautiful smelling brown flowers stand out in a way they dont on other types. With the little green elf you still get the open screen with a silver reflection like look you get with the sliver one in this video.
Great video. Really like the silver sheen.
murphyzlaw Thanks very much!!! Definitely appreciate the view and nice comment :)
@@RootedTheory video/audio was not synced very well, i just had to not look at his face :) it was driving me bananas
*maybe was connection at the time? Just eats her again and it is good now*
Wish this would grow in Zone 7 to 8
@@himbergerd not for me
how big of a pot would it need when it grows big but I don’t have a Pittosporum tenuifolium I only have Pittosporum silver sheen but it would still be good in a pot?
I recommend at least a 20x20”. This will allow for plenty of root space for long-term growth.
Thank you so much for your clear and concise description of this plant! Felling love it it's contrast of dark stem and light leaves!. I've heard you should not attempt to change a plant's make up, but could this plant be kept on the smaller side? Under six feet? (Neighbor issues, ya know..) Thanks so much!!
Hi Jodie!..glad u liked the vid! Yes you can definitely keep the Silver Sheen a bit smaller, I’d say 6-7 feet. Any shorter and it may rake on awkward growth. Make sure to give it protection from afternoon sun if you are in a hotter climate. Hope it works out!
D
Thank you so much for the super useful, packed with information video - totally fell in love with silver sheen! I'd love to plant them by a stucco wall and have them grow tall to provide some privacy. The area I'd plant is pretty much in shade though - we may get 2-3 hours sunlight - would that work? Thank you!
My pleasure! So yes these can grow in partial shade...however they tend to not grow as dense. So if you were looking for 100% privacy, they would probably not do that for you in this case. But would still provide some coverage and beauty!
@@RootedTheory thank you for your quick response! I'm kinda binge watching your channel since I just discovered it, lol. Is there a shrub that you would recommend for shade? We are in Santa Monica - there is huge, beautiful tree on the street that provides us the shade. Thanks again for your time!
Hi, can you plant this close to a house- or will it cause root issues with concrete?
Sure! This plant has a relatively non-invasive root system. However you still don’t want it too close for growth purposes. Keep it at least a couple feet away or more.
Budget Plants thank you!
How big of pots do you need for a silver sheen to still grow pretty tall? At least 10-12 feet? Will 25" wide by 28" tall planters be big enough? How big would they grow in this size pot?
That pot size should suffice reach nearly its max height, so long as the potting soil is good, drainage is good, and it has ongoing nutrients. It can reach about 10-12’ in this condition.
Something similar for zone 7?
how close should i plant near fence? to block neighbors behind me? thanks
To create a solid green wall, you could plant them about 3 feet on center.
how does this grow in a pot?
It can do pretty well so long as the soil has good nutrition and is well drained. It will need regular watering in a pot.
I have allergies.is this plant ok to have on my patio which is open?
Typically this plant will not cause allergies.
How often should you water newly planted silver sheen?
There’s several factors such as soil type, season, etc, but I generally recommend a thorough soaking (complete saturation) every day for the first week or two, then taper back to every other day. But always keep an eye on the foliage for wilt.
@@RootedTheory Thank you. The soil is part clay and we are in zone 9 in CA. I've noticed some yellowing so was just wondering if I was over or under watering. Sounds like i might have been under wateriing
Ok. Yes it sounds that way.. they generally like to receive lots of water to establish. Once a day usually for the first few weeks, and always monitor.
@@RootedTheory Once they are established (1 year old), how often would you recommend watering during spring/summer? They survived the first year and we didn't need to water during rainy season, but now in spring/summer we are watering and some leaves are turning yellow with brown spots. Just again not sure if we are under watering or over watering! :(
Are hydrangeas a good companion plant in the landscape?
Yes, those would be a great companion plant. Generally in Southern California here, hydrangeas need a little protection from hot afternoon sun.
@@RootedTheory I have perfect spot and a few hydrangeas that I wanted to move off our deck and plant there (in front of Pittosporum) but wasn't sure how they would do. My first thought was English Lavender, but not positive if that would be a good companion.
The hydrangeas should work. The Pittosporum can take about the same water as the hydrangeas will need.
Thanks for the helpful video! How well does it do in foothills - zone 9?
+climber6916 Glad it was helpful! I’ve seen the Siver Sheen many times up in the foothills...Monrovia, Pasadena, Glendale, etc. and it seems to do fine. My recommendation would be to keep it away from south-facing walls (reflected heat) and a little protection from the afternoon hot sun.
Will this beautiful shrub do well where I live in Bay Area's Burlingame?
Hi! This may be a little tender for the Bay Area. With cold wind, it will definitely show some damage. But given the perfect area protected from the elements it may do ok.
@@RootedTheory, thank you for your prompt reply.
Is this the same as Donovan gold just bought it or is that a different variety
It is the same genus and species, but just a different cultivar.
What about cold climates? Northern MN! I really want this plant!
Yeah it’s a super cool plant!...but in norther MN it won’t do very well. It would probably die in the first frost. Sorry!!
Great video from Downunder.
Many thanks!! 🙏🏼
I made vege beds first now i want to cover my back fance so can i plant at the back of my vege beds if they won’t disturbe my veggies
Generally it sounds ok. Just keep in mind they tend to get wide at the base and can get up to 12-15 feet tall or so. So just make sure to give em room!
They are lovely plants. I have atleast 6 of them and they are all only about 40cm high but i have already shaped them using the scissors so they are looking like small boxes (so to speak) 🙂Maybe i should have let them grow atleast 60cm or knee high and then trimmer/shaped them.
Would this do well in Redding California?
May get a bit too cool for the Silver Sheens. They’re pretty delicate.
@@RootedTheory Too cool? I was concerned about the summer heat?
If they are protected from reflected heat and afternoon sun they should be ok, but the colder winters would potentially be more detrimental. I would shoot for a different option.
How can I tell which California zone I am...in Vallejo.
Hi! Here is a good resource for finding your USDA zone.
www.gardeningknowhow.com/planting-zones/california-planting-zones.htm
Hi there, thanks for the video. I was wondering if this plant shed. I found a perfect corner for it but I have a neighbor who does complain about leaves on her property, will it be a problem? Thanks!
Hi! This plant is fairly clean as far as plant go. It’s an evergreen and typically does not leave a lot of mess. Hope this helps!
- Dom
What does mildly toxic mean? Is it toxic to the touch?
Typically not toxic to touch, but some folks with sensitive may experience irritation or rash after brushing against it. The sap leaves and stems can have this affect.
Very informative " Many Thanks "
Thanks for watchin 😎
Hi can i plant then in the back of my vege beds
Hi! Sure that shouldn’t be a problem so long as they are not eclipsing the veggies from the sun!
Can I plant in a pot? I want to frame my entrance
You sure can!
Planted 4 five months ago, looked healthy last week, now one dead all of a sudden. Researched this and appears to be common and for unknown reasons. Now i’m lost as what to do.
Yes this is something that happens with Silver Sheens, usually in the warmer season. If they have some protection from afternoon heat they tend to do better.
Can you propagate this?
Yes! You can propagate by cuttings. It’s helpful to use a rooting hormone for best results.
This tree feel like Ceanothus tomentosus, evergreen too
My favorite shrub, but it can die suddenly. That is a Fact. I keep replacing them. Need to replace 2 this week. 😕 8/2019
Yes that’s true...they are a little finicky for sure. They’re best in more mild climates where temps don’t get over 90 too often. They also don’t like reflected heat and appreciate some dappled shade in the afternoon. Good luck on the next batch!
@@RootedTheory I am just discovering this plant now. I like a lot of its characteristics, BUT is this a good candidate for the SE. Specifically south of Atlanta (near airport) Zone 8-9, and project is on a rooftop, and these will be in planters. can they be kept small by pruning? or should I be looking for other options???? thanks so much