The species of the genus Plumeria, also known as Lei, Frangipani or Hawaiian Palm, are represented by small trees/shrubs, of tropical origin, especially appreciated for the flowers of a special shape, with impressive colors, fragrant in the case of some species. Flowers are used in Hawaii both for making traditional Lei garlands, used in numerous ceremonies, signifying affection, love, and generally handed out in important moments, or in case of the arrival/departure of a visitor, as well as the preparation of jams and pastries.

The special and intense perfume, along with the capacity for massive and repeated flowering, starting from spring until late autumn, in a spectacular color palette that varies from white, yellow, pink and red, even with gradients that cross all these colors for a the only flower, gathers a large number of passionate breeders who dedicate their time to species of this genus. Plumeria is a long-lived plant, easy to grow and care for, even for beginners.

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The flowering of Plumeria species . For good growth and obtaining successive blooms, an important criterion is the provision of a suitable substrate , represented by slightly acidic soils with very good drainage, which suggests the use of substrate with amendments of fermented peat, sphagnum moss and perlite, to which will be added currently sand, at least in proportion of 10% of the total composition. From the point of view of the requirements regarding the intensity of light radiation, it is important that the species of the genus Plumeria benefit from a minimum of 5-6 hours of direct sunlight daily . Insufficient light leads to abnormal coloring of the leaves and possibly their premature loss. Plants that have direct sun are more robust and develop much better.

The ideal fertilization formula, especially for flowering, is based on phosphorus, an NPK 10 – 30 – 10 being considered ideal. An excess of nitrogen would produce excessive development of the foliage and diminish the flowering. Fertilizations will be administered at intervals of 2-3 weeks during the entire growing season.

Irrigation must be abundant and frequent , without allowing water to stagnate, which can often lead, especially when associated with low temperatures, to rotting of the roots. Before administering a new irrigation, the substrate will be allowed to dry - it must be remembered that Plumeria is a plant with a succulent stem, which means that it has water reserves but rots easily when watering is done too often and/or too abundantly . After mid-autumn, the frequency of irrigation will decrease, returning to the normal watering schedule with the arrival of spring. Avoid spraying and watering the leaves - this action can lead to yellowing and premature loss of flowers and leaves.

The genus Plumeria contains species tolerant to the concentration of salt in the soil, and indifferent to the intensity of the wind, but they are not resistant to low temperatures , it is recommended to move the specimens indoors during the cold periods. The temperature can vary between 15°C and 35°C, with an adequate regulation of humidity. In the cold season, the plant will be placed in protected spaces, where the temperature will never drop below 5°C (minimum 10°C is recommended).

Plumeria is a plant with upward growth, which always keeps only a few rows of leaves in the upper part . Degradation of the oldest leaves is common throughout the year (withering - the leaves turn yellow, brown or black spots appear, etc.) and can be accelerated by factors such as: transport and handling (in the case of newly purchased plants), changing the substrate, changes of the season, inconsistency of watering, lack of long-term fertilization, etc.. If the development of new leaves is observed, it is only necessary to correct the deficiencies (watering, appropriate substrate, fertilization, etc.). It is recommended to remove fallen or withered leaves as quickly as possible. It is expected that the Plumeria will lose its leaves when it is transported (temperature differences, handling, etc.) or moved to new culture containers, but the restoration of the plant is relatively quick and easy.

Diseases and pests . Plumeria is a real magnet for the red spider and mites (spidermites), especially when it is grown outdoors, spraying with acaricides (Vertimec, Milbeknock, Envidor, Nissorun) will be necessary. "Frangipani Rust" is a specific rust, but currently very rarely found among plants grown in the European Union. Other possible pests: Woolly lice, Thrips, Greenhouse white musculita, Mining musculita.

Pruning can be done, depending on the needs, in order to maintain the desired look and appearance, these being carried out either in late winter or early spring, before the development of new growth, but avoiding drastic interventions, as they can reduce the success of flowering.

Winter rest. In autumn, the Plumeria completely loses its leaves, and the growth slows down, the plant becoming stagnant during the winter. Watering will be reduced or even stopped completely (depending on the growing microclimate). If watering has been stopped, fine spraying is allowed for minimal hydration.

Reproduction of the species - you can read about the ways in which you can propagate Plumeria here: Plumeria propagation (Frangipani)

In the warm season you can buy Plumeria from Secret Garden here: Plumeria Offer

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