The Native or Australian Frangipani
The name ‘Native frangipani’ is given to Hymenosporum Flavum purely because of the fragrant yellow to white flowers. Some forms have attractive orange flowers streaked with red.
This an Australian Native plant, it is easy care and is found naturally on the east coast of Australia in NSW and QLD. It will grow to 25m and more in the more tropical climates, in cooler areas its growth is restricted somewhat.
Today it widely grown in many areas including Perth, it is possible to prune these trees to keep them as a more bushy plant. It is a fast growing tree and responds well to pruning.
How to grow Hymenosporum flavum – Basic Care
A humus rich well drained moist soil will see these plants thrive.
- Position
Best grown in full sun is best especially in cooler climates where they may struggle in shaded areas.
Ensure the soil is well drained. - Fertilizer
It is recommended a native plant fertilizer (low phosphate) in spring and again in early summer, water well before and after fertilizing. - When Planting.
Weed the area well and dig in some compost.
Plant and water in well.
Mulch around the plant to maintain a cool moist root run.
Stake young plants to ensure a good upright growth.
As a plant, this one is really unique, it is the only species in the genus. And no it is not related to the ‘Other’ frangipani.
Landscaping Uses
Good glossy green foliage and masses of fragrant flowers in spring make the Native Frangipani an excellent plant for full sun to a little light shade.
Widely in landscaping, it can be uses as a specimen tree, an informal hedge or screen pruned to form a lower growing shrub or hedge.
Look for the more compact or dwarf form, ‘Gold Nugget’, shorter internodes and it isn more easily pruned. Useful as a flowering, fragrant hedge to around 1 – 2m in height..
This a tree that copes with cooler climates and will grow in many areas as far south as Melbourne including parts of the Dandenong Ranges.
As a plant, this one is really unique, it is the only species in the genus. And no it is not related to the ‘Other’ frangipani.
Pruning
You can prune Native frangipani after flowering, this keeps the plant at a good size and promotes a bushy habit that will give more flowers.
Older plants will generally respond to hard pruning. So if needed you can prune back into old wood to reinvigorate and reshape the tree.
Summary Description
- Botanical Name – Hymenosporum Flavum
- Common Name – Native Frangipani or Australian Frangipani
- Height – 4 to 15 metres depending on soil and climate. Easily pruned to a lower growing bush.
- Spread – 5 to 7 metres depending on pruning.
- Growth Rate – Medium to fast.
- Flowering time – Spring to summer.
- Flower Colour – White to Yellow
- Foliage – Glossy Green
- Soil – Humus rich well drained.
- Position – Best grown in full sun for best flowers. Protect from strong winds
- Root system – The root system will seek water. It is recommended that you plant away from drainage and sewerage lines.
This is a fast growing evergreen tree that will reach around 4 – 15 metres in height depending on conditions.
Available for sale from the following nurseries
"Propagation and Production of Native and Exotic Trees
with Natural Root Systems from 2 to 2,000 lts."
www.njrivett.com.au