馃尭 Plumeria Plant Overview
Common Names:
Plumeria
Frangipani
Temple Tree
Champa (in India)
Melia (in Sri Lanka)
Scientific Name:
Plumeria spp. (most common species: Plumeria rubra, Plumeria alba, Plumeria obtusa)
Family:
Apocynaceae (same family as Pong Pong, but much less toxic)
馃尶 Plant Description:
Type: Small tree or large shrub
Height: 1.5 to 8 meters (5 to 25 feet), depending on species
Leaves: Long, leathery, glossy, or dull depending on the variety
Flowers:
5 petals, pinwheel or spiral-shaped
Extremely fragrant 鈥?sweet, floral, slightly citrusy
Colors: white, yellow, pink, red, orange, or multi-colored
Blooms in warm months, often from spring to fall
馃實 Native Region:
Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of South America
Widely cultivated in India, Southeast Asia, Hawaii, and tropical/subtropical areas worldwide
馃尡 Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6 hours/day)
Soil: Well-drained soil (they hate "wet feet")
Water: Moderate 鈥?let the soil dry between watering
Temperature: Warm and frost-free (can be grown in pots in colder climates and brought indoors)
馃尭 Uses:
Ornamental: Popular in gardens, parks, and temple grounds
Religious & cultural:
Used in garlands, offerings, and festivals
Symbol of love, devotion, immortality in many cultures
Aromatherapy & Perfume: The scent is often used in essential oils and perfumes
Medicinal (folk use): Sap and bark used in some traditional medicines, but should be used cautiously