Pittosporum viridiflorum gets its common name, ‘Cheesewood’, from its soft, white wood. This hardy evergreen tree grows well in full sun or semi-shade. It occurs across a wide range of altitudes, and its growth habit varies with location.

The Cheesewood prefers well-drained soils and tolerates drought once established. Regular watering during long dry periods will, however, support better growth. In South Africa, the tree occurs from the Western Cape through the Eastern and Northern parts of the country.

In the landscape, Pittosporum viridiflorum usually grows as a small to medium-sized tree. In forest habitats, however, it can reach about 30 m tall. The tree has smooth grey bark on young branches. Older branches develop crosswise seams.

Its leaves are glossy, simple and alternate. They have prominent veins underneath. Small, greenish-white flowers appear in summer. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance. Attractive red seeds follow the flowers. A sticky, resinous coating covers the seeds.

The tree develops a dense, rounded to spreading crown. This shape provides useful shade. Gardeners can also prune and shape the tree to suit different spaces. Its root system is regarded as non-aggressive, which makes it suitable for gardens with limited space.

The Cheesewood tree can be planted as a specimen tree, hedge, screen or container plant. Its glossy evergreen foliage provides year-round structure. Fragrant summer flowers and colourful seeds add seasonal interest.

Traditional medicine has also used the Cheesewood. People have used parts of the tree to treat fungal infections. Reports also describe antimicrobial properties in the leaves. Traditional uses also include the bark, which has a bitter taste and strong resinous smell.