Native frangipani
Hymenosporum flavum
A is a semi-deciduous tree up to 25 m.
The very fragrant flowers are quite large. They are initially functionally male, and coloured white with lemon tinges. Over a period of about five days, the stigma begins to develop and the stamens curl away. At the same time, the colour deepens until the fully functioning female flower is golden yellow with red/purple track lines in the throat.
Recommended as a fire-resistant species.
Type of Plant
Tree
Size
25m tall
Flower Structure
Tubluar, unusual shaped flower.
Flower Colour
Yellow, Cream
Flowers When?
Summer, Spring
Leaves
The oval leaves are simple, alternate, glossy green above and lighter below
Light Levels
Full Sun, Light Shade, Part Shade
Soil Types
Acid to neutral sandy, Sandy, Light forest soil
Soil Moisture
Well Drained
Garden Use
Garden Filler, Feature, Mass plantings
Care
Low maintanance
Special Features
fast growing, bird nesting, prunes well, Handls stong winds
Attracts
Bees, Butterflies, Other Insects
Family
Pittosporaceae
Cultivars, Hybrids, Varieties
History, meaning of the name
The genus name Hymenosporum is derived from the Ancient Greek words humḗn, meaning membrane, and sporā́, meaning seed. It is a reference to the winged seeds. The species epithet flavum is from the Latin flāvus, yellow, and refers to the flower colour.
Distribution
Found in the rainforests and wet sclerophyll forests of New Guinea, Queensland and New South Wales.