Pittosporum hosmeri, commonly known as Kona Cheesewood, is an evergreen tree native to the dry forests and lava plains of the Hawaiian Islands, particularly on the leeward sides where conditions are drier. It typically grows to a height of 15-20 feet (5-6 meters) and can develop a broad canopy with a width of 30-40 feet (9-12 meters). Kona Cheesewood has a dense, rounded form with glossy, bright green leaves that provide year-round interest. The tree produces small, fragrant flowers that are white to cream in color, blooming in the spring and sometimes again in the fall. These blossoms are followed by small, yellow-orange berries that are attractive to birds.

Kona Cheesewood is valued for its drought tolerance and is often used in xeriscaping and as an ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical landscapes. It is suitable for urban environments due to its moderate size and adaptability to various soil conditions. While it prefers full sun or part shade, it is also tolerant of wind and some salt spray, making it a good choice for coastal planting. Gardeners should be aware that Pittosporum species can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils and may attract pests such as scale insects and mealybugs. Regular monitoring and maintenance can help prevent these issues.CC BY-SA 4.0