Tallowwood (Pittosporum bicolor, J. Bot. (Hooker) 1: 249 (1834))

Family: Pittosporaceae

Author: Hook.

Bibliography: J. Bot. (Hooker) 1: 249 (1834)

Year: 1834

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Pittosporum

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. Australia

Description

Tallowwood, scientifically known as Pittosporum bicolor, is a notable species in the diverse flora of Southeastern Australia. This intriguing plant belongs to the Pittosporaceae family, a group renowned for its uniquely adapted members that thrive in the variations of Australian climates.

First documented by Hooker in 1834, Pittosporum bicolor has cemented its place in botanical literature over time. It was first described in J. Bot. (Hooker) 1: 249 (1834), establishing its formal introduction to the scientific community.

Tallowwood is recognized for its bicolored leaves, which lend to its striking appearance. The dual coloration often found in the foliage is not merely an aesthetic quality but reflects the plant’s adaptation to its environment. These leaves typically exhibit a darker green on the upper side and a lighter hue underneath, aiding in the plant’s photosynthetic efficiency in variable light conditions prevalent in its native habitat.

The plant thrives primarily in Southeastern Australia, where it has adapted to various terrains ranging from coastal environments to more inland regions. This geographic specificity underscores the importance of local ecological conditions in the proliferation of the species.

While Tallowwood is lauded for its ornamental appeal in gardens and landscaped areas, it also plays a critical role in the local ecosystem. It provides habitat and food sources for numerous native fauna, thereby maintaining the intricate balance of its natural surroundings.

In summary, Tallowwood or Pittosporum bicolor is a distinguished and ecologically significant plant within the Southeastern Australian landscape, offering both beauty and functionality. With its well-documented scientific background and botanical interest, it continues to be a subject of admiration and study within the realms of horticulture and ecology.

Common Names

Eng: banyalla, tallowwood
En: Tallowwood, Banyalla
Fi: Kirjokielopuu
Fa: میخک دورنگ

Synonyms

• Pittosporum discolor (Regel)
• Pittosporum ledifolium (A.Cunn.)
• Pittosporum huegelianum (Putt.)

Distribution

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

Additional Images

Fruit

Taken Mar 23, 2022 by Dawn Hendrick (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/4161697)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:684384-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pittosporum bicolor Hook.)

Specifications

Growth