Pittosporum angustifolium – Gumbi Gumbi (plant)

Description

Pittosporum angustifolium used to be called Pittosporum phylliraeoides, family Pittosporaceae. Pittosporum angustifolium is mainly an inland tree and is widespread across much of Australia. It extends from southern Western Australia, across much of South Australia, southern Northern Territory, northeastern Victoria, and over most of western and central New South Wales and Queensland. While widespread, isolated trees often typify occurrences. Pittosporum angustifolium has pendulous foliage and usually attains about 6m in height but is reported to grow up to 10m tall. It grows across a wide range of habitats, often on sandy soils. I used to see lots of Pittosporum angustifolium growing around the Lockyer Valley in SE QLD in the marginal open woodland areas with rainfall from 600-900mm per annum.  More info here.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that Australian Aboriginal people used Pittosporum angustifolium topically for eczema, pruritus or to induce lactation in mothers following child birth and internally for coughs, colds or cramps. Currently there is some evidence that it is useful for some types of cancer. The leaves of Pittosporum angustifolium are more active than the fruit.

Care and Cultivation of Pittosporum angustifolium

Full sun to part shade position. Fertilise moderately over the growing season. Seeds are eaten by birds and Pittosporum angustifolium is a useful shade tree. Very drought and frost tolerant.

1 plant