Hymenosporum flavum is the only member of the genus Hymenosporum (ie. it is a a monotypic genus). The genus is closely related to Pittosporum, which it resembles in certain respects.
Popular in cultivation it is generally fast growing and adapts well to most soil types. It performs best in moisture retentive, humus rich soils and appreciates supplementary watering during extended dry periods. Young plants are frost tender but as they mature they can tolerate moderately heavy frosts. Plants flower much better in a full sun position but they can tolerate some shade.