The Beautiful, Fragrant Plumeria

If you have ever had the opportunity to visit Hawaii, you may have experienced one of its most memorable traditions — the warm island welcome. Visitors are often greeted at the airport by people dressed in traditional Hawaiian clothing who place beautiful, fragrant flower leis around their necks.

Throughout the trip, the sweet scent of these flowers seems to follow you everywhere. In many cases, these leis are made from plumeria, also called frangipani. The fragrance of plumeria is truly unique, and each flower color can have its own distinctive scent. Some varieties smell sweet and tropical, while others may remind you of jasmine, peaches, or fresh citrus.

Origins and Growing Conditions of Plumeria

Plumeria is native to tropical regions including the Caribbean, Pacific islands, South America, and Mexico. In its natural environment, the plant can grow into a large tree reaching heights of 30 to 40 feet. In areas with milder climates, it usually develops into a large shrub or a smaller tree.

Plumerias can grow successfully in Southern California and similar regions as long as temperatures generally remain above 40°F. They prefer warm conditions, with daytime temperatures around 80°F to 90°F and nighttime temperatures between 60°F and 70°F.

These tropical plants are famous for producing the fragrant blossoms used in Hawaiian leis. They bloom heavily during the growing season, and their flowers remain attractive for a long time both on the plant and when used in indoor floral arrangements.

Choosing the Right Location for Plumeria

Plumerias are commonly available at nurseries during the warmer months. When selecting a planting location, choose an area that receives plenty of direct sunlight.

Full sun encourages the greatest number of flowers. Although plumerias can survive in partial shade, plants grown in lower light conditions usually produce more leaves and fewer blooms.

The ideal soil should be loose, sandy, and able to drain quickly. Avoid planting plumeria in areas where water collects or where the soil remains constantly wet.

Because they enjoy similar conditions, plumerias grow well alongside drought-tolerant plants such as cacti and succulents. A cactus or succulent soil mix is often an excellent choice when planting them.

Growing Plumeria in the Ground

When planting plumeria directly in the landscape, dig a hole slightly wider than the plant’s root ball. Place the root system into the hole and gently return soil around the roots.

Press the soil lightly to secure the plant, then provide a small amount of water to help settle the soil. Avoid soaking the area, as excessive moisture can damage the roots.

Growing Plumeria in Containers

When growing plumeria in a pot, choose a container size based on the current size of the plant and how large you want it to become. A larger pot can always be selected later as the plant grows.

Carefully remove the plant from its original container while keeping the existing soil around the roots. Place the entire root ball into the new pot, making sure the plant sits in the center.

Fill the surrounding space with a fast-draining potting mix, such as a palm and cactus blend. Add a layer of soil on top to complete the planting process.

Fertilizing and General Care

During the active growing season, plumerias benefit from fertilizers that are high in phosphorus. This period usually begins around April and continues until temperatures begin to cool in autumn.

Feed growing plants about once a month with a fertilizer that contains low nitrogen and higher phosphorus levels. For potted plants, a common recommendation is approximately one tablespoon of fertilizer per gallon of container size.

For plumerias planted in the ground, a flower and bloom fertilizer with a formula such as 3-12-12 can provide good results. Apply according to the trunk size and product instructions, usually two to three times per year depending on soil conditions.

Always follow the fertilizer label directions for the best results.

Winter Care for Plumeria

During winter in cooler regions such as Southern California, plumerias naturally enter a dormant period. At this time, they require little to no water or fertilizer.

Potted plumerias should be moved to a warmer location, such as near the house or another protected area. Outdoor plants can be covered with frost protection fabric during cold nights.

Because plumerias are tropical plants, they are sensitive to low temperatures. Exposure below 50°F can cause stress, and temperatures below 40°F may severely damage or kill the plant.

However, mature and healthy plumerias are sometimes able to tolerate brief periods of colder weather without major harm, especially when they are well established and properly protected.