Plumeria - Plant Encyclopedia Results

Plumeria cubensis is a rare Caribbean frangipani species native to Cuba, where it grows in warm, seasonally dry habitats.

It forms a compact deciduous tree adapted to bright tropical conditions and well-drained soils.

What makes Plumeria cubensis distinctive?

Plumeria cubensis develops as a small to medium tree with a rounded crown, smooth grey-green branches, and thick leaves that are narrower than those of many cultivated frangipani species. Its flowers appear in warm months and show the classic plumeria arrangement of five rounded petals, typically in creamy white or soft yellow tones, often with a delicate central flush. The species thrives in full sun with excellent drainage, tolerating periods of seasonal dryness and responding well to warm temperatures and moderate feeding during the growing season. In USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10-11, it remains reliable outdoors, dropping its leaves during cooler or drier periods and resuming active growth with rising heat. Its compact habit and distinctive Caribbean origin make Plumeria cubensis a noteworthy species for collectors and for tropical gardens where a smaller, well-shaped frangipani is desired.

Singapore plumeria (obtusa) - evergreen shrub or small tree, up to 15 feet tall (4.5 m), or more; dark, shiny, leathery, blunt ended leaves, 6 to 10 inches long (15-25 cm), needs protection below 40° F (4° C). It has has scented, creamy white flowers with a yellow center, 1.6 to 2 inches in diameter (4-5 cm). This small tree grows to 8m high and is best suited to a tropical climate where, unlike most frangipanis, it is reliably evergreen. It can be grown in frost-free, subtropical climates, but requires a sheltered position and a fairly constant water supply. The broad, blunt-ended leaves are 15cm or more long. The scented, creamy white flowers have a bright yellow center. with its elegant, rounded flowers and soft perfume, 'Singapore White' is one of the loveliest of all plumerias. Plumeria commemorates Charles Plumier, a seventeenth-century French botanist who described several tropical species. The genus contains 8 species of mainly deciduous shrubs and trees, originally from Central America, known for their strongly fragrant flowers. The tree can reach a height of 9m, though they are generally much smaller. Their fleshy branches contain a poisonous, milk sap. In the tropics, the terminally held flowers (generally white) appear before the leaves and continue to flower for most of the year. In subtropical climates the flowers appear in spring, after the leaves, and continue growing until the next winter. The fruit consist of 2 leathery follicles, although the trees rarely fruit in cultivation. Most plumerias in gardens are hybrids. Plumerias are very salt tolerant. See Thai Plumeria - varieties Gallery.

Plumeria commemorates Charles Plumier, a seventeenth-century French botanist who described several tropical species. The genus contains 8 species of mainly deciduous shrubs and trees, originally from Central America, known for their strongly fragrant flowers. The tree can reach a height of 9m, though they are generally much smaller. Their fleshy branches contain a poisonous, milk sap. In the tropics, the terminally held flowers (generally white) appear before the leaves and continue to flower for most of the year. In subtropical climates the flowers appear in spring, after the leaves, and continue growing until the next winter. The fruit consist of 2 leathery follicles, althought the trees rarely fruit in cultivation. Most plumerias in gardens are hybrids.Although Plumerias are about as easy to grow as they come, the one thing they don't particularly like is to be overwatered. Your Plumeria comes in a specially designed soil which allows for excellent drainage, so any soil mix you purchase should do likewise. Water approximately once a week, or when you can see the soil is light, i.e., dry. Soak thoroughly so that water is running out the bottom drain holes. If you miss a watering, not to worry, Plumerias are incredibly tolerant of being dry. Plumerias are very salt tolerant.

Plumeria 'Elsee' displays striking petals with a deep pink to crimson gradient that softens into white toward the edges.

Plumeria 'Baby Bird' features creamy white petals with a soft yellow center and delicate pink edging, creating a light, airy appearance.

Plumeria 'Jeena Red' stands out with its rich reddish-pink petals that deepen toward the center and are subtly outlined in white, creating a glowing, tropical effect against the lush green foliage.

Plumeria 'Moonlight' reveals elegant creamy white petals brushed with soft yellow centers and delicate hints of pink at the tips, creating a luminous, romantic look reminiscent of moonlit evenings.

Plumeria 'First Kiss' features creamy white petals flushed with pink edges and a warm orange center, creating a delicate and romantic look that lives up to its name.

Plumeria 'Lai Namtan' stands out with its soft pink petals blending into creamy white and golden yellow centers, creating a delicate, pastel-toned bloom that evokes a tropical sunset.

Plumeria 'Sang Aroon' (Frangipani) begins with deep red buds that open into vivid reddish-pink and orange-yellow flowers, which gradually fade to creamy centers and soft pink edges, creating a graceful transition from intensity to delicacy.