Have you ever heard of Australian native frangipani?
The name frangipani is used almost exclusively for the genus Plumeria, which holds a huge variety of beautiful blooms in pink, yellows and whites on fleshy, tropical trees. Although it is often seen in humid coastal regions across Australia, plumeria is not native and actually heralds from the Americas (especially Hawaii!).
However, there is an Australian native plant quite similar to the popular Plumeria ‘frangipani’. Native frangipani or Hymenosporum flavum is not at all related to the Plumeria plant genus, but the flower shape and size are very similar. Adding this plant to your garden is a great way to encourage native biodiversity and hero Aussie plants.
Growing conditions of native frangipani
Native frangipani is a rainforest tree endemic to Queensland and New South Wales.
When to plant
Anytime of the year
Climate
Sub-tropical, warm and cool temperates
Sun/Shade
Does best in full sun position
Water
Regular
Soil type
Well-drained and nutritious soil
Blooms
Flowers early spring to summer
How to grow native frangipani
Native frangipani is known as a low-maintenance plant, making it easy to grow and maintain across most regions of Australia. To grow a native frangipani, follow these steps:
- Find a local nursery (usually a native nursery) that stocks native frangipani. You can usually buy this plant as tube stock or at a smaller sapling plant height.
- Ensure your soil is well-draining and not too high in phosphorous, as many Aussie natives do not respond well to it.
- Plant directly into the ground.
- Water well as it establishes. This plant can be left unwatered for longer periods, but during its initial period of growth, it will need extra attention.
- It is important to protect seedlings from frost when in the growth stage, until they are a couple of metres tall. It can grow up to 15m tall and 7m wide.
What type of climate does native frangipani need to survive?
Native frangipani is a rainforest tree that is from Queensland and NSW, but it does do well in cooler, shadier conditions. This plant is considered to work best in a sub-tropical climate, but can be grown quite easily in warm temperates, cool temperates and Mediterranean climate conditions.
How much sun does native frangipani need?
Native frangipani will grow best in full sun, and the flowers will be happiest in a sunny spot. However, native frangipani can tolerate small amounts of shade, and will grow fine in areas that do not have a full 6 hours of sun each day.
How often should it be watered?
Most Australian native plants do not need to be watered as much as exotic or foreign species. This is because they are indigenous to Australia, and are easily able to adapt to our climate zones. Native frangipani is low-maintenance, and requires watering when soil is dry and conditions are hot.
What type of soil should I use?
Native frangipani, like most native plants, loves a well-draining soil that doesn’t hold too much moisture. Fertiliser isn’t really necessary for this plant, but if you did want to fertilise, it is always best to go with a native-specific fertiliser.
When will it bloom?
Native frangipani will bloom beautiful flowers from early spring into summer. Flowers will initially bloom as a creamy white and change to a buttery yellow as they mature. The best part is, they have a sweet, tropical fragrance!
These flowers are loved by many Aussie insects, birds and animals, and will promote a healthy ecosystem within your garden. Unlike plumeria species, native frangipani produce nectar for birds and insects to eat. They are also an evergreen tree and will never lose their leaves!
How to maintain native frangipani
This plant doesn’t need to be maintained very often and makes for a very easy-care part of your garden. Native frangipani is quite a large growing tree and can reach up to 15m in height. It has an upright pyramidal shape and does not need to be pruned unless a different shape is desired.
The only maintenance native frangipani needs is protection from frost during the colder months. This can be done with mulch on the ground or wrapping smaller-sized plants in hessian or bubble wrap.
Common problems and pests
Native frangipani is prone to scale insects attacking both the stems and foliage of the plant. This can lead to sooty mould and yellowing leaves and significantly affect the overall health of your tree. The best way to rid yourself of scale is by applying white oil or horticultural oil directly on the plant, where the scale insects have infested.
