The Story
Plant Bio
Plumeria rubra, commonly known as frangipani, is a deciduous small tree native to the Neotropics, characterised by a sparse, spreading canopy and thick, succulent-like branches. The branches exude a thick, milky latex sap when damaged and bear leathery, spirally clustered leaves at their tips.
This species is distinguished by its terminal clusters of highly fragrant, five-petaled, waxy flowers that bloom continuously from late spring through autumn. While wild forms typically produce white or purplish-pink flowers with yellow centres, cultivated selections exhibit a broad spectrum of red, orange, and multi-coloured bicolours.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
315 inches
Width
315 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
10
Water
Low
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Neotropics
Toxicity
Toxic sap and parts
Bloom period
Late spring – Autumn
In flower about 6 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Ensure the soil is exceptionally well-drained, incorporating sand or organic matter to heavy soils to prevent waterlogging.
- Water moderately during the warm active growing season, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
- Withhold water entirely during the winter dormant phase when the plant sheds its leaves.
Pro Tip
Avoid watering during the winter dormant period when the tree has dropped its leaves; excess moisture in cold soil rapidly induces fatal stem and root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Plant in a position with sharp drainage and maximum sun exposure.
- Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to protect the root system.
- Prune dead or frost-damaged branches back to healthy green wood during winter dormancy.
Don't
- Do not overwater or allow the plant to sit in waterlogged soil.
- Do not prune heavily into old, leafless wood unnecessarily.
- Do not allow the milky sap to contact skin or eyes, as it contains toxic alkaloids.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Frangipani, Red Frangipani, Temple Tree questions
What zones can Frangipani, Red Frangipani, Temple Tree grow in?
Frangipani, Red Frangipani, Temple Tree is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Frangipani, Red Frangipani, Temple Tree bloom?
Frangipani, Red Frangipani, Temple Tree typically blooms in late spring through autumn. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Frangipani, Red Frangipani, Temple Tree need full sun?
Frangipani, Red Frangipani, Temple Tree does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Frangipani, Red Frangipani, Temple Tree drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Frangipani, Red Frangipani, Temple Tree handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Plumeria to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Frangipani, Red Frangipani, Temple Tree with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.