Pittossporum undulatum is a fast growing evergreen tree, called by it's various common names Native Laurel, Native Daphne, Mock Orange and Sweet Pittosporum. This plant is native to Australia and it's natural habitat is in Rainforests and wet sclerophyll forests ( forests with higher rainfall ). Birds eat the berries, and deposit them where they travel, and this leads to the plants growing in areas that it is not neccessarily welcome. Other species of Pittosporum are not considered weeds and are popular garden plants.
This native Pittosporum is an attractive plant, with shiny glossy green leaves and has masses of small creamy- white flowers with a wonderful fragrance. The scent of the flowers is a delight while walking amongst stands of the tree in parks and reserves, so in my opinion, this is a plant which maybe attracts undeserving criticism, and there are many other introduced weeds that present far more of a threat to native bushland.
Native Laurel is happy growing in semi-shade under taller trees as well as out in the open sun by itself or as part of a mixed planting. it flowers in Spring and early summer, and is drought tolerant once established, but does benefit from an extra watering. Left unpruned, it can grow to around 10 to 12 metres tall, so if you have a large garden , it could be considered, or maybe you will get some plants growing, courtesy of local birds if you live in Australia.
I took these photos in a local Reserve where i regularly take a walk.
