🌸 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)

🌿 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 — sweet, floral, slightly citrusy

Colors: white, yellow, pink, red, orange, or multi-colored

Blooms in warm months, often from spring to fall

🌍 Native Region:
Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of South America

Widely cultivated in India, Southeast Asia, Hawaii, and tropical/subtropical areas worldwide

🌱 Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6 hours/day)

Soil: Well-drained soil (they hate "wet feet")

Water: Moderate — let the soil dry between watering

Temperature: Warm and frost-free (can be grown in pots in colder climates and brought indoors)

🌸 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