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Pink Plumeria Wikimedia Commons
Apocynaceae

Pink Plumeria

Plumeria rubra

Paradise, devotion, and tropical romance.

Family
Apocynaceae
Genus
Plumeria
Native to
Mexico, Central America, Colombia, Venezuela
Bloom season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Type
deciduous tree
Height
300–800 cm
Sunlight
full sun
Soil
well-drained, sandy
Water
low to moderate
Hardiness
10–12
Lifespan
perennial tree; 50+ years

Did you know

  • Plumeria is the flower most commonly used in Hawaiian leis, though it is not native to Hawaii.
  • The thick, fleshy branches ooze a white latex sap that can irritate skin and was used in traditional arrow poisons.
  • The flowers produce no nectar — they trick sphinx moths into pollinating by mimicking nectar-producing species.
  • In Hindu and Buddhist cultures, frangipani is planted around temples as a symbol of immortality and devotion.
  • A plumeria cutting can survive months without soil or water and still root when finally planted.

Color meanings

Pink

tropical love and welcome

White

spiritual purity

Uses

  • leis and garlands
  • tropical landscaping
  • perfumery
  • temple gardens