Red Frangipani
Also known as
Frangipani, Temple Tree, Plumeria, Common Frangipani, Nosegay, Melia
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Red Frangipani
Plumeria rubra, commonly called red frangipani, is a deciduous, drought-tolerant small tree native to tropical dry forests of Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. It forms a sculptural framework of thick, knobby, succulent branches that exude a milky latex when cut. Leaves are large, leathery, and oblanceolate, clustering at branch tips and dropping in cool or dry seasons. From late spring through fall in warm climates, terminal clusters of intensely fragrant, five-petaled flowers appear, ranging from crimson and hot pink to white with yellow centers. The perfume is strongest at dusk to attract pollinators. In cultivation, P. rubra thrives in containers or ground plantings where winters are mild, preferring very fast-draining, sandy or gritty soils and full sun. It tolerates heat, reflected light, salt spray, and brief dry spells, but is sensitive to prolonged cold and waterlogging. Seed pods (paired follicles) form occasionally; vegetative propagation by tip cuttings is most common. Cherished worldwide for its tropical bloom display and iconic fragrance, it is widely used in leis and ornamental plantings.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Red Frangipani
Water
Water deeply, then allow the mix to dry substantially before the next irrigation. In warm, active growth, water when the top 50–75% of the potting medium is dry; in hot, windy periods, check more often. Never allow the plant to sit in a saucer of water. During cool weather or dormancy (leafless), water very sparingly—just enough to prevent stem shriveling. After taking cuttings or repotting, wait until wounds callus and new growth initiates before resuming regular watering.
Light
Provide full sun, ideally 6–8+ hours of direct light daily for reliable flowering. Outdoors, select a warm, reflected-heat location sheltered from persistent cold winds. Indoors, place at the brightest south- or west-facing window, or supplement with high-output grow lights. Acclimate plants gradually when moving from indoors to strong outdoor sun to prevent leaf scorch. Insufficient light leads to lanky growth and poor blooming.
Nutrients
Feed only during active growth (spring to late summer). Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer at leaf-out, then switch to a high-phosphorus, low-nitrogen liquid feed every 2–4 weeks to promote blooming. Include micronutrients, especially magnesium and iron; Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) at low rates can help green leaves and support flowering. Avoid heavy feeding in cool weather. Flush pots with clear water every 6–8 weeks to prevent salt buildup, and stop fertilizing as plants enter dormancy.
Temperature
Optimal growth occurs between 20–32°C (68–90°F). Protect from temperatures below 10°C (50°F); brief exposure to near-freezing can defoliate and damage tips. In USDA Zones 10–12, it can remain outdoors year-round. In cooler climates, move containers indoors before night temperatures drop below 12°C (54°F). Provide bright light and keep relatively dry during winter rest at 10–15°C (50–59°F). Avoid sudden swings from cold, wet conditions to heat, which can stress tissues.
