Plumeria, also known as Frangipani, are tropical flowering plants admired for their beautiful, fragrant blossoms. They are a popular choice for gardeners seeking exotic allure. The journey from bud to full bloom is a fascinating display.
The Plumeria Blooming Cycle
Plumerias bloom during warmer months, typically late spring through early fall in the Northern Hemisphere. In tropical climates, blooming can extend for several months, sometimes almost year-round. Flowering begins with an “inflorescence,” a cluster of flowers on a stem, typically growing from a branch tip.
A single plumeria branch usually blooms once per year, with its cycle lasting weeks to months, depending on variety and conditions. The plant can produce multiple inflorescences throughout the season, especially with many branches, allowing for an extended display.
Key Stages of Plumeria Bloom Development
Once an inflorescence appears, plumeria flowers progress through distinct developmental stages. Tiny, tightly clustered buds emerge, representing the beginning of the floral display.
The buds begin to swell and gradually reveal their characteristic coloration. This stage marks the anticipation of vibrant hues as the flower prepares to unfurl.
The buds gradually unfurl into open flowers. Petals gently separate and expand. Each flower typically lasts one to four days, contributing to the inflorescence’s overall display.
At full bloom, flowers display vibrant colors and emit their signature fragrance. The plumeria’s beauty and scent are most pronounced. The aroma, often a mix of jasmine, citrus, and gardenia, is most intense during early evening and nighttime.
Finally, flowers enter a stage of fading. Blooms begin to wilt, their colors may dull, and they eventually drop off. Removing spent flowers (deadheading) encourages the plant to produce more buds, potentially extending the flowering season.
Care for Optimal Plumeria Blooming
Providing the right environmental conditions and consistent care encourages abundant plumeria blooms. Plumerias require at least six to eight hours of direct sun daily. In hotter climates, afternoon shade can prevent scorching.
Proper watering is important, especially during the active growing and blooming season. Plumerias prefer consistent moisture but require well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering. During winter dormancy, watering should be significantly reduced or stopped.
Plumerias are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization to support growth and flowering. A phosphorus-rich fertilizer (e.g., 5-30-5 or 10-30-10) promotes abundant blooms. Fertilize every two to four weeks or at least once a month during the active growing season (spring through fall).
Temperature plays a role in blooming, with plumerias thriving in temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-29°C). They are not frost-tolerant and should be protected below 50°F (10°C). Light shaping or removing dead/diseased branches can be done. Pruning encourages new growth, and since flowers form on new branch tips, this can lead to more blooms, though it may delay flowering from the pruned tip.