How to Remove Plumeria Flowers From Stems

Plumerias are tropical trees that produce fragrant flowers in shades from white to deep maroon. The first plumeria was introduced to Hawaii from its native Central America in the mid-1800s. Although it’s not native to Hawaii, the flowers of this tree have long been made into leis. At the time of publication, the University of Hawaii lists 40 cultivars of this plant. Plumerias are very sensitive to frost and require a moderately high humidity, making them difficult to grow in climate zones outside of the tropics. It’s easy to remove the flowers from the stems to use as decorations.

Things You'll Need

• Ladder (optional)
• Basket
• Colander

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Search for fully opened flowers on a producing tree in the early morning. Choose flowers that feel thick and waxy. Use a ladder to pick flowers toward the top of larger plumeria trees because the best flowers often exist in this location.

   • 2

     Grasp the base of the flower stem gently, and tug lightly to remove it from the flower cluster. It will easily slip off. Drop the flowers into a basket.

   • 3

     Place flowers in a colander, and then rinse them with a light misting of cool water before you string them onto a lei or use them for another purpose. Misting will help to remove any insects and keep the flowers fresh.