Plumeria

Plant Type: deciduous flowering shrub/small tree
Plant Height: 8–20 feet (depending on variety and climate)
Spread: 8–12 feet
Flower Color: white, yellow, pink, red, or multi-colored (varies by variety)
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Plumeria (Plumeria spp.): Tropical Beauty with Fragrant Blooms

Plumeria, also known as Frangipani, is a tropical to subtropical plant treasured for its clusters of intensely fragrant, showy flowers. Native to Central America and the Caribbean, it’s widely cultivated in warm regions for its lush summer display and intoxicating scent.

Key Features of Plumeria

• Fragrant Blooms: Produces large, waxy flowers in a range of colors from spring through fall.
• Attractive Form: Thick, succulent branches and leathery green leaves create a tropical look.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Performs well in hot, sunny locations with proper care.
• Versatile Use: Can be grown in the ground, in large containers, or as a patio specimen.

Growing and Care Tips

Plumeria thrives in warm, frost-free climates or as a container plant that can be overwintered indoors in cooler regions.

Soil: Requires very well-draining soil; a sandy or cactus-style mix works best.
Water: Water deeply when soil is dry during active growth; reduce significantly in winter when dormant.
Fertilizer: Feed with a high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., “bloom booster”) every 2–4 weeks during the growing season.
Pruning: Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to shape and encourage branching.

Landscaping Uses

• Tropical Accent: Brings a lush, exotic feel to gardens and poolside landscapes.
• Fragrance Garden: Ideal near patios, decks, and windows where the scent can be enjoyed.
• Container Planting: Perfect for pots that can be moved indoors in cold weather.
• Cut Flowers: Commonly used in leis and floral arrangements.

Summary

Plumeria is a striking, fragrant bloomer that thrives in sunny, warm conditions. Its sculptural form, wide color range, and long flowering season make it a favorite for creating a tropical atmosphere.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Plumeria

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun (6+ hours daily) for best flowering.
Soil: Very well-draining, sandy or cactus potting mix.
Spacing: Space 8–12 feet apart in-ground.
Planting Depth: Keep the root crown slightly above soil level.
Support: May need staking in windy areas when young.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deeply water after planting.
• Frequency: Once a week during active growth, allowing soil to dry between waterings.
• Watering Amount: Enough to moisten soil 8–10 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 6–12 months of consistent growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 7–10 days when actively growing.
• Winter: Water sparingly or not at all when dormant.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 2–3 emitters around the drip line.
Flow Rate: 1–2 gallons per hour.
Number of Emitters: Two for young plants; three to four for mature trees.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase during hot, dry spells; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Plumeria:

• Soil Check: Let soil dry 2–3 inches deep before re-watering.
• Avoid Overwatering: Plumeria is prone to root rot in soggy soil.
• Mulch: Apply gravel or bark mulch to retain moisture but keep away from the base.