Hymenosporum flavum - Native Frangipani

Hedging & Screening: Plant 2 m – 2.5 m apart for soft screening with fragrant blooms.

Feature Tree: Plant 3 m – 4 m apart to encourage upright growth and flowering.

Avenue Planting Trees: Plant 5 m – 6 m apart to create a lightly shaded walk with seasonal fragrance.

How to Plant:

• Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade exposure.
• Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the pot.
• Remove the tree from the pot and place it in the hole, ensuring it is at the correct depth.
• Backfill with soil, water thoroughly, and apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Caring for Hymenosporum flavum:

• Water regularly, especially during dry periods and while the tree is establishing.
• Fertilize with a general-purpose fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.
• Prune as needed to maintain shape and promote a more compact growth habit.

Ideal Drainage: Hymenosporum flavum requires well-drained, fertile soils to flourish, important for supporting its growth and fragrant flowers.

Soil Preferences:

Sandy Soils: Native Frangipani benefits from the excellent drainage provided by sandy soils, which helps prevent root rot. To optimize growth in sandy conditions:

• Incorporate organic matter such as compost to enhance nutrient content and water retention.
• Use a slow-release fertilizer to provide a steady supply of nutrients, promoting healthy foliage and vibrant blooms.
• Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and maintain a cool root environment.

Clay Soils: Although challenging, clay soils can support Hymenosporum flavum with proper amendments:

• Amend with gypsum and organic matter to improve drainage and soil structure.
• Consider creating raised beds or mounds to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging around the root zone.
• Periodic soil aeration can help alleviate compaction, enhancing water infiltration and root penetration.

Loamy Soils: These are ideal for Hymenosporum flavum, offering a balance of drainage and nutrient availability:

• Enrich with organic matter annually to support the tree’s vigorous growth and extensive root system.
• Maintain consistent moisture, especially during flowering and dry spells, to ensure optimal health and bloom production.
• Check and adjust soil pH occasionally, as Native Frangipani prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.

Acidic or Alkaline Soils: This species can adapt to a range of soil pH but performs best in mildly acidic to neutral soils:

• Modify soil pH with lime if overly acidic or sulfur if too alkaline to enhance nutrient uptake and overall health.
• Regular pH testing and adjustments can help maintain the ideal soil environment for robust growth and flowering.

General Tips:

• Hymenosporum flavum is renowned for its sweetly scented flowers and attractive growth habit; maintaining soil health is key to achieving its best performance.
• Regularly monitor soil moisture and nutrient levels, adjusting care practices to meet the plant’s needs throughout the seasons.
• Ensuring the soil is well-prepared and maintained will support a healthy, vibrant Native Frangipani, making it a standout feature in any garden.