Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Cratus’ – Compact Evergreen with Distinctive Foliage
Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Cratus’ is a compact and attractive evergreen shrub, valued for its fine-textured foliage and naturally bushy habit. The small, slightly wavy-edged leaves are a fresh mid-green, creating a soft, dense appearance that works well in both formal and informal planting schemes.
Its tidy growth makes it particularly suitable for low hedging, border structure, or use in containers, where it provides year-round greenery without becoming overly large. It clips well and can be shaped easily, making it a good option for neat, controlled planting.
Compared to broader-leaved pittosporum varieties, ‘Cratus’ offers a finer texture and more refined look, bringing subtle detail and contrast to mixed planting.
Thriving in a sunny, sheltered position, it prefers free-draining soil and benefits from protection against cold winds and severe frost. In milder UK areas, it performs reliably with minimal maintenance.
Easy to grow and versatile, it requires only occasional trimming to maintain its compact shape.
Neat, textured, and adaptable, Pittosporum ‘Cratus’ is an excellent choice for adding structure and year-round interest to the garden.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Fresh green growth emerges.
Summer: Dense foliage maintains a tidy shape.
Autumn: Evergreen structure continues.
Winter: Compact form remains intact.
Key Features
Fine foliage – Small, slightly wavy leaves.
Compact habit – Ideal for smaller spaces.
Evergreen – Year-round structure.
Easy to shape – Suitable for hedging.
Low maintenance – Minimal care required.
Perfect For
Low hedging – Neat, structured boundaries.
Borders – Adds texture and form.
Containers – Suitable for patios and terraces.
Small gardens – Compact and manageable.
Formal planting – Clean, controlled look.
Growing Tips
Sun/Position: Full sun; sheltered from cold winds.
Soil: Free-draining soil essential.
Hardiness: Hardy in milder UK areas; protect from severe frost.
Care: Trim lightly to maintain shape.
Looks Great With
Lavender – Soft contrast beneath.
Grasses – Adds movement and texture.
Topiary – Combine with structured forms.
Evergreens – Layered planting schemes.
Mediterranean plants – Complements dry planting.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.