Contents
Description
Hymenosporum, commonly known as the native frangipani or yellow-fringe, is a flowering tree that belongs to the family Pittosporaceae. This evergreen tree is native to Australia and can grow up to 10-20 meters tall. It has a smooth bark, glossy green leaves, and produces fragrant yellow flowers in spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus | Hymenosporum |
Appearance
Hymenosporum has a dense and rounded crown with glossy green leaves that are lance-shaped and about 10-20 cm long. The leaves are arranged alternately and have a slightly wavy edge. The fragrant yellow flowers are trumpet-shaped and about 5-7 cm wide, with five petals that are slightly twisted. The flowers are followed by woody pear-shaped fruit that can be up to 5 cm long. The bark of the tree is smooth and grey-brown in color.
Care Guide
Hymenosporum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soils but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. The tree needs regular watering during the growing season, but it is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer in spring and mid-summer. Hymenosporum prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures as low as -3°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hymenosporum is generally free from pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Scale insects can also infest the tree, causing yellowing of the leaves and stunting of growth.
Habitat
Hymenosporum is native to eastern Australia and can be found in rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and along creek banks.
Question and Answer
Q: When does Hymenosporum bloom?
A: Hymenosporum produces fragrant yellow flowers in spring and summer.
Q: How tall can Hymenosporum grow?
A: Hymenosporum can grow up to 10-20 meters tall.
Q: What kind of soil does Hymenosporum prefer?
A: Hymenosporum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Is Hymenosporum tolerant of cold temperatures?
A: Hymenosporum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -3°C.
Related Plants
- Pittosporum
- Banksia
- Grevillea
- Acacia
References
- “Hymenosporum flavum.” PlantNet. Accessed on 19 August 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Hymenosporum~flavum
- “Hymenosporum flavum.” Australian Native Plants Society. Accessed on 19 August 2021. https://anpsa.org.au/h-fla.html
- “Hymenosporum flavum.” Floridata. Accessed on 19 August 2021. https://floridata.com/pages/Hymenosporum-flavum/
