A handsome Australian native rainforest climber with glossy foliage and showy clusters of rosy-pink trumpet flowers in spring. A choice, frost-tender vine for sheltered subtropical gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 5 m H × 3 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Fraser Island Creeper
Botanically, Tecomanthe hillii is a moderate-growing climber in the Bignoniaceae family, native to Queensland. It reaches around 5 m tall and 3 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Pink flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Fraser Island Creeper
Fraser Island Creeper suits subtropical and tropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Fraser Island Creeper does best in loamy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Fraser Island Creeper does best with regular, moderate watering. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Fraser Island Creeper after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Fraser Island Creeper in the garden
Fraser Island Creeper earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, a shade tree and drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden.
Companion planting & design
Combine Fraser Island Creeper with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Fraser Island Creeper
Plant Sale lists Fraser Island Creeper as potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
