Frangipani (Plumeria magna)
Care, watering, light and tips for Frangipani on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Frangipani
Plumeria magna, commonly known as Frangipani, is a small shrub or tree from the Apocynaceae family, cherished for its fragrant and showy flowers. Its large, glossy leaves complement the five-petaled blooms, often in shades of white, yellow, and pink, which emit a sweet, intoxicating scent. It is ideal for tropical and subtropical gardens, as a specimen plant or in large pots on sunny patios, adding an exotic and perfumed touch.
Native range
Plumeria is not a species. Plumeria is a genus. 'Alelí' refers to the genus Matthiola. I do not know the origin of a species called 'Plumeria magna'.
Care tips
It requires full sun for abundant flowering, at least 6 hours daily. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings, and drastically reducing it in winter. Use a well-draining, slightly acidic substrate, enriched with organic matter, such as a cactus and succulent mix with perlite. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot, especially in colder climates.
How to save a dying Frangipani
- Warning signs
- Yellow or prematurely falling leaves, soft, wrinkled or blackened stems. Soft, dark roots.
- First aid
- Remove plant from pot, inspect roots, cut soft or rotten parts. Repot in well-draining substrate and don't water immediately.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter or with low temperatures. Lack of direct sun. Heavy substrate retaining too much moisture.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you detect the problem in time and there's no advanced trunk rot. Recovery can be slow.