Kāro (Pittosporum crassifolium) is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to New Zealand, growing 5–10 m tall. It has thick, leathery dark green leaves with pale, hairy undersides that help protect it in coastal conditions. In spring, it produces fragrant dark red flowers, followed by woody capsules that split open to reveal sticky black seeds
Pittosporum crassifolium "Karo"
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Botanical Name Pittosporum crassifolium Maori Name kaikaro or kihiki Common Name stiffleaf cheesewood Family Pittosporaceae Type Evergreen shrub / small tree Origin Endemic to New Zealand — widespread throughout both the North and South Islands Mature Height 5m Mature Spread Approximately 2 m Sun Requirements Full sun to part shade Soil Prefers light, well-drained soils; avoid consistently damp or waterlogged conditions Flowering Spring — Fragrant burgundy flowers Wind Tolerance Excellent — tolerates wind and salt spray; suitable for coastal sites Frost Tolerance Hardy Drought Tolerance Good — tolerates drought and dry soils Growth Rate Relatively fast — can reach 5m within ten years Maintenance Very low — tolerates heavy clipping Conservation Status Not Threatened
