Red frangipani - Plumeria rubra (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Red frangipani

Also known as: Red-jasmine, Common frangipani

Red frangipani (Plumeria rubra) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Central and South America. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical climates. All parts of the plant are toxic when ingested due to their high alkaloid content.

Scientific classification

Species

Red frangipani (Plumeria rubra)

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

2 m to 8 m

Plant Height

4.5 m to 8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Pink, Yellow, Red, White, Orange

Flower Color

Green, Yellow, Pink

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen, Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Red frangipani

Distribution of Red frangipani

Distribution Map

The red frangipani plant is native to Central America and Mexico, growing at the edge of tropical forests or along mountainsides. It was introduced into parts of Asia and South America.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rocky areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Economic Value

Extracts can be used in the manufacturing of premium cosmetics, soaps and food additives.

Garden Use

Red frangipani is a deciduous shrub or small tree commonly found in tropical gardens. It is prized for its fragrant, spiral-shaped flowers. Its freestanding habit makes it suitable for mid-shrub borders and beds. Red frangipani is appropriate for rooftop or Mediterranean gardens. Suggested companion plants include Bromeliad, which provides ground cover, or Canna Lily for color contrast.

Symbolism

Birth of hope, resurrection, new life, beauty, charm, passion

Interesting Facts

Red frangipani is an important commercial crop in Hawaii, where the flowers are made into traditional leis necklaces or worn as hair decorations. In Hawaii, over 14 millions red frangipani are sold each year. Similarly, in Cambodia, the red frangipani flowers are traditionally and commercially important for funeral services. The flowers are commonly placed as decorations on coffins or used as offerings to Cambodian deities.

Name Story

Red frangipani: The common name “frangipani” comes from an Italian noble family, a sixteenth-century marquess who invented a plumeria-scented perfume. The genus name honors Charles Plumier, who was a French monk of the Franciscan order, and a botanist. Its specific epithet is derived from the latin word, ruber meaning "red", so it is called red frangipani.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Red frangipani, including the following common varieties :

Red frangipani 'Hawaiian Opal Pink'

Toxicity

Red frangipani is toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. Ingestion or contact with non-flower parts causes stomachaches and skin irritation in humans and serious health issues in pets. Urgent veterinary care is crucial if pets ingest the plant, showing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and drooling. Wearing gloves during gardening is recommended to avoid contact with the sap.

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Care Guide for Red frangipani

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from tropical regions, red frangipani thrives in high humidity with moderate moisture and drought tolerance. Watering should occur every 1-2 weeks. Typically grown outdoors for optimal sunlight, red frangipani benefits from rainwater during its active growing season, enhancing flowering.

Fertilize: Fertilizing red frangipani with balanced, water-soluble fertilizers every 3-4 weeks during the growing season promotes healthy growth and blooms. Reduce feeding in winter, ensuring thorough watering after application to aid nutrient uptake. Use gloves for safety to avoid skin irritation from fertilizers.

Pruning: Red frangipani thrives with winter pruning to remove dead branches and improve air circulation, fostering healthy growth and flowering. Regular pruning enhances disease resistance and sunlight penetration, crucial for red frangipani's overall vigor and bloom quality.

Propagation: Red frangipani can be propagated via stem cuttings from healthy branches. After a clean cut, allow the end to dry before planting in well-draining soil. Maintain moisture without waterlogging, provide indirect light, and consider using rooting hormone to promote root development.

Repotting: Repot red frangipani every 2-3 years in early spring using a slightly larger pot with good drainage. After repotting, position red frangipani in bright, indirect light and resume watering when the topsoil feels dry to promote healthy growth.

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Images of Red frangipani

Distribution of Red frangipani

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Care Guide for Red frangipani

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