Singapore graveyard flower - Plumeria obtusa (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Singapore graveyard flower

Also known as: White frangipani

Singapore graveyard flower (Plumeria obtusa) is a plant species native to the West Indies and naturalized elsewhere. The singapore graveyard flower is grown for its showy, aromatic flowers, and in Cambodia the blossoms are used in religious offerings. This plant is most commonly cultivated in Southeast Asia.

Scientific classification

Species

Singapore graveyard flower (Plumeria obtusa)

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

3 m to 8 m

Plant Height

3 m to 8 m

Spread

Green, Brown

Leaf Color

Evergreen, Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Singapore graveyard flower

Distribution of Singapore graveyard flower

Distribution Map

Singapore graveyard flower is natively found in tropical regions of Central America and the Caribbean. As a testament to its adaptability and ornamental value, it has been introduced to several countries in Southeast Asia, where it is found both in cultivation and occasionally naturalized. This plant flourishes in warm climates across these continents, owing its spread to human activity and its popularity in horticulture.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

They primarily symbolize beauty, charm and grace, but can also symbolize new beginnings, birth, creation, immortality, shelter and protection. The ancient Indians believed that Frangipani represents the infinite life of our soul.

Interesting Facts

The singapore graveyard floweris often planted in graveyards because the flowers that the tree drops overnight are regarded by some Muslims and Buddhists as an offering to the dead. In the Pacific islands, a Plumeria flower worn behind the right ear signifies that a woman is single, and a flower behind the left ear declares that she is married.

Name Story

Singapore graveyard flower: The genus gets its name from a 17th-century monk and botanist, Charles Plumier. “Obtusa,” meaning blunt, refers to the rounded tips of its leaves. In some countries, it is known as frangipani, the name coming from the Marquis Frangipani who created a perfume with a similar scent to the heady scent of these flowers.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Singapore graveyard flower

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Singapore graveyard flower thrives in consistently moist environments and requires careful balance between hydration and drainage. It prefers stable humidity and should be watered every 1-2 weeks, with soil allowed to dry slightly in between. Its waxy leaves help retain moisture, reducing watering frequency in cooler months.

Fertilize: To promote healthy growth in singapore graveyard flower, use balanced nutrition fertilizers every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, reducing to monthly in cooler months. Apply quarter-strength water-soluble fertilizer, adjusting quantities for plant size. Avoid fertilizing new or repotted singapore graveyard flower for the first month to prevent root shock.

Pruning: Singapore graveyard flower features striking white flowers and glossy leaves. Pruning, best done from early to late winter while dormant, includes removing dead branches and thinning inner growth to enhance health, vigor, and bloom abundance. Consult reputable horticulture guides for detailed methods.

Propagation: Singapore graveyard flower is a tropical species with fragrant blooms and evergreen leaves, propagated via cuttings. Select a healthy non-flowering tip, cure it, and use rooting hormone. Plant in well-draining medium, maintain moisture, and provide indirect light for optimal root growth before transitioning outdoors.

Repotting: When repotting singapore graveyard flower, a medium-sized shrub, do so every two years in spring for optimal growth. Use a pot 2-3 inches larger in diameter and provide bright, indirect light and regular watering post-repotting to aid acclimatization and ensure flourishing health.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free