How to grow plumeria (frangipani)

Plumeria has strong traditional associations with Hawaii, where the flowers are used to make leis, or garlands, given to visitors as a token of friendship. It flowers in a wide range of colours from yellow, red, pink and mauve, as well as white, plus many spectacular bi-colours. The large blooms are borne on fleshy, succulent stems in summer and autumn. Given an unrestricted root run in a conservatory or greenhouse border, plants may attain several metres in height, but a container will restrict ultimate plant size.

Where to grow Plumeria

Plumeria is not suitable for growing outside in the UK, but it makes an excellent house plant and works well in conservatories. Choose a well lit position with a minimum temperature of 10°C – you may need to move it out of the conservatory in winter.

How to plant frangipani

Plant Plumeria in a good-sized, sturdy pot, using soil-based compost such as John Innes no 2 with added coarse grit or perlite to ensure sharp drainage. Ensure the rootball sits at the same level it was in its original pot, firm gently and water well, allowing the water to drain completely.

How to care for Plumeria

Water sparingly for the best results. While in growth from spring to autumn, water only as required to keep the compost moist and take care not to overwater. Feed once a month with a general liquid fertilizer. In winter, reduce watering to almost nothing, allowing the compost to almost dry out.

How to propagate Plumeria

Take frangipani cuttings in spring. Using secateurs, cut the stem tips, allowing the base of each stem to dry before placing in pots of seed compost, mixed with a third of vermiculite to aid drainage.

How to prune frangipani

Prune Plumeria as little as possible and only if necessary to restrict growth or to trim straggly shoots. Carry out any pruning in late winter.

Growing Plumeria: pests and diseases

Stem rot may occur if the plant has had too much water. Take care to water sparingly: ensure the pot drains freely and the rootball doesn’t sit in water.

Red spider mite may be a problem, especially where the atmosphere is dry. Improving levels of humidity deters this pest, by standing the pot in a pebble and water-filled saucer so the pot is clear of the water.