Question
QUESTION: I have a two year old Pittosporum Tenuifoluim, about 8-9  feet tall growing in
full sun in Southern California.  The leaves are turning brown and there is a
white marshmallow looking fluid (for the lack of a better description) coming out
of the branches.  Can this be treated and if so how?

ANSWER: Mary-Alice:

This exudate may be insect in origin, but not sure w/ seeing.  Can you take and send a closeup photo of this material? Review your images on your computer first- to be sure it is in focus. Select the best one and send. Try to get as close as you can.
I'll take a look and see what you may have.
Thanks
Steve

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Pittosporum   QUESTION: Sending requested photograph

Answer
Mary-Alice:

Thanks for the photo. If this material is soft and "foamy" like a glob of saliva (A.K.A. spit), then this is the product of an insect called a spittle bug. Use your computer and "Google Images" to see some photos of the two-lined spittle bug. The immature insect develops in this foamy mass. This insect can be an issue in the lawn, but I have not seen it cause a problem in ornamentals that would warrant a chemical (insecticide).  If you have just a few on your shrub, I would just wipe this foam off with a paper towel or cloth.

The brown leaves on your ornamental are probably due to another reason rather than this bug. Be sure it is being watered appropriately especially during hot/dry and windy conditions. Also, examine the trunk and branches for any evidences of damaged bark. There may be some type of injury.  If none seen, water may be a factor.

Thanks for your photo.

Steve