Plumeria pudica: niche analysis

Removing the tiger grass will expose our front courtyard to the neighbours, so we need a screening plant that would suit the existing arid style courtyard garden that is populated with pandanus, jade plants, agave and yucca. 

Plumeria pudica seemed to fit the bill; a Central American tropical evergreen that can be pruned to encourage bushiness, with low water requirements and a love for warmth and the sun. There are many examples of this tree (3-5m tall) in our and surrounding suburbs, so the climate here appears suitable.

Apart from screening and beauty (it flowers almost year-round), it only otherwise provides some pollen and nectar for insects. It does not bear fruit, fuel or much compost.

We were able to source plants from Ladybird Nursery; good value with two to four plants per pot!