Brisbane-laurel (Pittosporum revolutum, Hortus Kew. 2: 27 (1811))

Family: Pittosporaceae

Author: W.T.Aiton

Bibliography: Hortus Kew. 2: 27 (1811)

Year: 1811

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Pittosporum

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Queensland to E. Victoria

Description

The Brisbane-laurel, scientifically known as Pittosporum revolutum, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Pittosporaceae family. This species was first documented in literature by W.T. Aiton in “Hortus Kewensis,” published in 1811.

Pittosporum revolutum is native to the eastern regions of Australia, specifically from Eastern Queensland to Eastern Victoria. This distribution highlights the plant’s adaptability to diverse climatic conditions found along the east coast, from subtropical to temperate environments.

Brisbane-laurel is noted for its ornamental appeal in the garden landscape. It features lush, green foliage that presents a glossy and vibrant appearance throughout the year. The leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern, creating an attractive texture and form. One of the defining characteristics of this plant is its revolute leaf margins, which curl under and give the plant its scientific epithet, “revolutum.”

In the spring, Pittosporum revolutum produces clusters of small, yet striking yellow flowers. These blooms not only add a splash of color to the garden but also emit a pleasant fragrance that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The flowering period is followed by the development of seed capsules, which, when mature, split open to reveal bright red seeds that further enhance the plant’s decorative value.

Brisbane-laurel is a versatile plant that can be utilized as a hedge, screen, or focal point in both formal and informal garden settings. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers a position with partial to full sunlight. Moreover, it is a hardy species that can withstand moderate frost and drought once established, making it an excellent choice for a low-maintenance garden.

In summary, Pittosporum revolutum, or Brisbane-laurel, is a resilient and attractive shrub that offers year-round beauty and interest. Its natural distribution along the eastern seaboard of Australia, coupled with its fragrant flowers and striking foliage, makes it a valuable addition to gardens in various climatic zones.

Common Names

Eng: brisbane-laurel, hairy pittosporum, mock orange
En: Brisbane-laurel, Hairy pittosporum, Mock orange

Synonyms

• Pittosporum tomentosum (Bonpl.)
• Pittosporum hirtum (Willd.)
• Pittosporum hirsutum (Link)
• Pittosporum revolutum var. tomentosum ((Bonpl.) F.M.Bailey)
• Pittosporum fulvum (Rudge)
• Pittosporum andersonii (Fisch. ex G.Don)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Victoria (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Sep 4, 2022 by Hem B (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 4, 2022 by Hem B (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Sep 4, 2022 by Hem B (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 26, 2021 by Louis Stanton (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Sep 12, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Nov 1, 2022 by Dawn Hendrick (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 26, 2021 by Louis Stanton (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 26, 2021 by Louis Stanton (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Mar 26, 2021 by Louis Stanton (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7858299)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:684670-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pittosporum revolutum Aiton)

Specifications

Growth