Sweet Pittosporum is a highly invasive tree that can grow up to 12 metres in optimal conditions. It has coarse grey bark and glossy green elliptical leaves with distinctive wavy, or undulating margins. Small, white, fragrant flowers occur in clusters at the end of branches in spring and early summer and are followed by orange-tan berries one centimetre in diameter in autumn, which persist for several months.

Sweet Pittosporum is a native to coastal areas of NSW and eastern Victoria. It has been widely used as an ornamental tree given its ability to grow in most situations and spread across our state. The fruits are easily spread by birds and its invasion into native vegetation, particularly in higher rainfall areas can be catastrophic. Some areas in the Otways between Apollo Bay and Lorne are being radically altered by this highly invasive species.

Photos courtesy of Neil Tucker.