Frangipani

Location

Butterfly Garden

  • Common name: Frangipani, Plumeria, Nosegay, Pagoda Tree, Temple Flower
  • Scientific name: Plumeria Rubra
  • Family name: Apocynaceae
  • Origin: Central America
  • Height: 20-25 ft
  • Width: 20-25 ft
  • Growth: Fast
  • Zone: 10b-11
  • Light needs: Full sun
  • Salt tolerance: High
  • Soil/pH/Texture: Prefers clay, sand, or loam; prefers mildly acidic soil (pH 6.1 – 6.5)
  • Moisture: Moderate water needs – should be watered regularly until established
  • Drought tolerance: High
  • Pests/diseases: Scale, nematodes; in its habitat of origin, frangipani caterpillars eat its leaves.
  • Growing conditions: Should be grown in an open, sunny, somewhat moist area. Needs plenty of open space, as this plant grows to be very large. Should be planted only in areas that do not freeze during the winter, as frangipani is very susceptible to freezing temperatures. Should be pruned regularly for strong structure.
  • Characteristics: Leaves are simple, large (12 – 18 inches long), and pointed. Leaves grow alternately along the stem. Stems are soft, thick, and brittle, and exude a white sap when damaged. Flowers are very showy and have five petals which are arranged in a spiral-like shape. The flowers tend to be pink or red in color and are very fragrant. Fruit is an elongated brown pod containing numerous seeds.
  • Propagation: By cuttings or by seeds
  • Facts: In its original habitat, it is a host plant for the Frangipani Caterpillar, the larval stage of pseudosphinx tetrio. Its white sap can be a skin irritant. The flowers are cultivated in Hawaii to make leis and scented oil.
  • Designer considerations: Great as a specimen planting, deck or patio tree, or a sidewalk/walkway plant. A great attention grabber due to its fragrant, beautiful flowers.
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