Plant of the Month – May 2025
Plumeria
Frangipani
In south Florida, the arrival of spring doesn’t just mean warmer air and longer days—it marks the return of one of the state’s most striking bloomers: the Plumeria. Known for its lush, fragrant flowers, this tropical tree wakes from its winter dormancy with the help of April’s rainfall and rising temperatures. By May, the branches that once stood bare are lined with clusters of colorful, sweet-scented blooms.
Native to Central America and the Caribbean, plumeria has found a natural home in Florida’s subtropical climate. It thrives on heat, full sun, and well-drained soil. While it tolerates dry conditions well, it depends on spring moisture to kick-start its growing season. The timing of Florida’s seasonal rains is ideal—encouraging new blooms almost immediately followed by rapid leaf development.
Plumeria’s growth pattern is unique. It goes dormant in winter, dropping all its leaves and pausing growth until warmth returns. In the southern parts of the state, the plant can remain outdoors year-round, but in the central and northern regions of Florida, it often requires protection from frost or must be grown in containers that can be brought indoors.
Despite its exotic appearance, Plumeria is surprisingly low-maintenance. Gardeners can start a new plant from a single cutting, and once rooted, it will bloom reliably each year with minimal care. The result is a landscape filled with vibrant color and intense form.
Written by: Vaughan Johnson, Landscape Designer