Uses of Frangipani (Plumeria)

Garden Plants

• When grown outdoors, frangipani can reach about 30 feet tall, but the size depends on the particular cultivar and growing conditions. Leaves vary in size from 2 to 4 inches wide and 8 to 12 inches long, and can be either dull or glossy. Some varieties drop their leaves in winter and others are evergreen. Tubular flower bases expand into a pinwheel-type form with five petals which usually overlap toward the base. Flowers have a distinctive, strong, sweet fragrance, blooming from March into October. Grow them as focal specimen plants, as patio trees or in mass plantings. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil.

Container Plants

• Plumerias can grow well in large nursery containers or in tubs or ornamental pots with drainage holes. For best growth, allow sufficient room for root growth, about 1 gallon of pot volume per 1 foot of stem or trunk growth. Some cultivars are naturally more compact and others can be kept to a desired size by pruning them in the spring. You can root the pruned cuttings. Place container plants near doors and windows or on patios where the fragrance can be easily enjoyed. Relocate plants for winter to a bright, well-ventilated area when outdoor low temperatures approach 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Indoor winter temperatures should be above 35 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cultural Uses

• Frangipani is closely tied to the cultures of several countries. In Laos, it is considered sacred and planted in the courtyards of Hindu temples. In India, trees are used in graveyards and cemeteries where they symbolize immortality because of their ability to keep growing leaves and flowers even when removed from the soil. In modern Polynesia, women use plumeria flowers as a sign of commitment. A flower over the right ear indicates that the woman is unattached, and over the left ear it signifies that she already has a relationship.

Decorations

• The leis or flower garlands of Hawaii are traditionally made of frangipani flowers. Individual flowers are gently pulled free from the plants and threaded lengthwise in 38- to 40-inch lengths of string. They will keep for several days in plastic bags kept at 55 to 58 degrees Fahrenheit. Frangipani flowers make free-form floral arrangements when floated in shallow containers of water, and flowers make fragrant additions to bathwater. Flowers are used for hair ornaments and in weddings for bridal bouquets, table decorations and even decorating wedding cakes.