Pittosporum undulatum, commonly known as Victorian Box or Native Tawny, is a large evergreen shrub or small tree native to southeastern Australia. It's known for its:
- Distinctive leaves: These are the plant's most characteristic feature. They are:
- Evergreen: Staying green year-round.
- Lance-shaped (lanceolate): Long and narrow, tapering to a point at the tip.
- Wavy (undulating) margins: The edges are not smooth but have gentle, up-and-down curves. This characteristic gives the plant its species name "undulatum," meaning "wavy" in Latin.
- Glossy: They have a shiny, polished surface.
- Alternately arranged or clustered: They grow one at a time along the stem or grouped at the tips of branches.
- Size: Typically 5-15 cm long and 1.5-5 cm wide.
- Color: Dark green on the upper surface and paler green or yellowish underneath.
These leaves are an essential part of the plant's beauty and function. They help the plant:
- Photosynthesize: Capture sunlight and convert it into energy for growth.
- Transpire: Release water vapor into the atmosphere, which helps regulate the plant's temperature.
It's important to note that while the leaves themselves are not considered toxic, all parts of the Pittosporum undulatum plant contain a mild saponin, which can be irritating to the skin and eyes if ingested or comes into contact. It's best to wear gloves when handling the plant and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
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