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Australian Frangipani or Hymensoporum flavum
If you want a small growing evergreen shade tree then take a look at this delightful Australian cousin to our Pittosporums. Hymensoporum flavum is a naturally slender grower with branches that reach out to cast light shade .She is the perfect tree to choose where you want height in a confined area because lower branches can be removed to leave a canopy up top. Indeed it is a tree you can do almost anything with as the tree is easily trimmed to any size and shape. Untrimmed you can expect this tree to grow to 6 ms.
Australian frangipani is a quick grower with narrow, bright green pointy and shiny leaves. The leaves are a most attractive feature and this tree would not be out of place in a tropical theme. The flowers somewhat resemble those of the tropical Frangipani but they are not related. Hymensoporum has been flowering in our district since mid October and is in full flush now. If we get plenty of sun and heat through summer then she will continue to flower until the end of summer. Leave any pruning until flowering has finished. All the growth made through autumn and winter bears next seasons flowers.
The flowers are stunning .Clusters of creamy buds open as warm yellow open flowers. They drip from the ends of the branches and exude a warm honey and orange blossom fragrance. This is a lovely tree to grow near the house or outdoor entertaining area so the tropical fragrance can be enjoyed.
Despite coming from Queensland and new South Wales this tree is relatively hardy, withstanding light to medium frosts. Young trees need winter protection for the first couple of years but soon adapt. Grow in full sun to ensure a good production of flowers. Tolerant of wind but not gales. I am surprised how much salt spray this tree seems to tolerate as have seen good specimens flourishing close to the sea. Keep well watered through dry periods and mulch well with animal manures and compost.
If you haven’t got room for another tree but like the sound of the flowers then look out for the dwarf growing variant Hymensoporum Gold Nugget. This little beauty only grows 80cms tall and the same in width. It is a mass of flowers at this time of year. I have grown her as a container plant for years and are about to release her into the garden. Again chose a sunny position close to a path or window so you can enjoy that fragrance.
Just close your eyes and dream that you are in a tropical paradise.
 Hymensoporum Gold Nugget
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