Frangipani
Plumeria rubra
Frangipani is a tropical tree native to Central America, although now grown all over the world. It has bright flowers which bloom in a variety of colours, and is a popular ornamental plant.
Frangipani grows to a height of between 7–8 metres (21–24 feet) and has a thick trunk with thin, grey bark. The branches are brittle and easily break off. The sap, a white, latex-like substance, is mildly poisonous and can cause skin irritation and a nasty rash. Be careful when pruning!
When they open out, the flowers are 5–7.5 cm in diameter (2–3 inches) and are a variety of colours: pink, red, white and yellow blooms are all seen. This makes it stunning to look at when in full bloom. They are very fragrant.
The pointed leaves are large, 30–50 cm (12–20 inches) long and will fall every autumn. The seed pods are long (17.5 cm or 7 inches in length) and contain winged seeds.
In tropical climates the Frangipani can be grown out of doors but in temperate climates it is best to grow it as a potted plant. It must be kept warm, at least 13 °C (55 °F).
Frangipani is a tropical plant and must be kept above 13 °C (55 °F). In temperate climates it should ideally be grown in a greenhouse or conservatory, but you can place it outside in the summer. It should be grown in a pot, not planted in your garden. In tropical climates, it can be grown outside.
Frangipani needs at least 5 hours of sunlight per day. If your frangipani doesn’t bloom, it needs more sunlight.
Frangipani should be grown in a peat moss based potting mix that is kept moist during the spring, summer and autumn. You need to water it sparingly during the winter, when it is dormant. If the leaves start turning yellow, it means you are over-watering.
During spring, summer and autumn, feed with a high-phosphorus fertiliser to promote blooming. Do not feed during the winter.
Frangipani is difficult to grow as a bonsai but can be grown as a shrub.
Please note that Plumeria rubra is a deciduous plant and sheds most of its leaves during winter, when the light day is short. Plumerias we grow are all exposed to artificial lighting and because of this, they keep most of their leaves throughout the winter. If your plants start to shed their leaves, do not worry - they are just returning to their natural cycle and will grow back their leaves in late February - early March. Place your Plumerias in a sunny spot and feed them no more than 60 ml of water per pot, per week. If you wish to speed up the process of leaf growth, expose plants to 6 hours of artificial lighting, daily.
In Cambodia, Frangipani flowers are made into necklaces as offerings to the gods or as coffin decorations
Frangipani is one of the ingredients in Nag Champa incense