Plumeria
Plumeria rubra
Family: Apocynaceae · Also called Frangipani, Temple Tree, Lei Flower, Plumeria incarnata var. milleri, Plumeria rubra f. acutifolia, Plumeria rubra f. lutea
Heady & Exotic · Spring–Summer bloomer
The plumeria is the quintessential tropical flower, its waxy, pinwheel-shaped blooms in cream, pink, yellow, and red are the flowers most associated with island paradise. The fragrance is extraordinary: a complex blend that shifts between jasmine, coconut, citrus, and spice depending on temperature and time of day.
beauty, charm, grace, new beginnings
In the Victorian language of flowers, plumeria means “Grace and the perfection of beauty”. In Hawaii, plumeria (frangipani) leis are the iconic symbol of aloha spirit. In Hindu and Buddhist cultures across Southeast Asia, the frangipani is associated with temples and devotion, often planted in temple grounds. In Bali, the flower is called jepun and is used in every offering to the gods.
Did You Know?
Plumeria trees are essentially giant succulents, they store water in their thick trunks and can survive drought by dropping all their leaves. A broken branch stuck in soil will root and grow. The milky sap is irritating to skin, yet the flowers are edible and used in Southeast Asian cuisine.
Dry coastal regions and deciduous forests of Mexico and Central America
Plumeria is native to Central America, Caribbean. It naturally grows in dry coastal regions and deciduous forests of mexico and central america.
Scent Profile
“A rich, sweet tropical fragrance blending jasmine, coconut, and citrus, warm and euphoric, the scent of island gardens at dusk.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NamePlumeria rubra
- FamilyApocynaceae
- Native ToCentral America, Caribbean
- Bloom SeasonSpring–Summer
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
In Hawaii, plumeria (frangipani) leis are the iconic symbol of aloha spirit. In Hindu and Buddhist cultures across Southeast Asia, the frangipani is associated with temples and devotion, often planted in temple grounds. In Bali, the flower is called jepun and is used in every offering to the gods.