Plumeria Alba

Description

Plumeria Alba, also known as the white frangipani or pagoda tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to Central and South America but has been widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The plant is well-known for its fragrant and showy flowers that range from white to yellow with a sweet and pleasant scent.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Plumeria Alba grows up to 6 meters tall and 5 meters wide. It has a thick stem with smooth bark and slender branches that form a wide canopy. The leaves are large, glossy, and oblong with a length of 20-40 cm and a width of 8-15 cm. They are arranged alternately on the stem and have a dark green color. The flowers are the most striking feature of Plumeria Alba. They are 5-petaled and measure 5-7.5 cm in diameter. The petals are overlapping and form a funnel-shaped corolla with a yellow center. The flowers bloom from spring to fall and are highly fragrant, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Care Guide

Taking care of Plumeria Alba is relatively easy. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:- Water: Plumeria Alba prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Plumeria Alba benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks to promote flowering.- Soil: Plumeria Alba grows best in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. Use a mix of sand, perlite, and compost to improve drainage and aeration.- Sunlight: Plumeria Alba requires full sun exposure to bloom and grow properly. It can tolerate some shade but needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Plumeria Alba is a tropical plant and prefers warm temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C but thrives in temperatures between 21-32°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Plumeria Alba is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by some common issues, including:- Mealybugs: Small white insects that suck the sap from the plant. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with neem oil or a soapy solution.- Spider mites: Tiny red or yellow insects that feed on the underside of leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with water or a miticide.- Black sooty mold: A fungal disease that grows on the honeydew secreted by insects. It can be prevented by controlling the insect infestation and improving air circulation.

Habitat

Plumeria Alba is native to Central and South America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and riverbanks. It has been introduced to many tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Southeast Asia, Hawaii, and the Caribbean. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and along roadsides.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Plumeria Alba grow in containers?

A: Yes, Plumeria Alba can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are placed in a sunny location.

Q: How often should I prune my Plumeria Alba?

A: Prune your Plumeria Alba during the dormant season to remove dead or damaged branches. You can also prune the plant to control its size and shape.

Q: Can Plumeria Alba tolerate salt spray?

A: No, Plumeria Alba is not tolerant of salt spray and should be protected from it.

Q: How long does it take for Plumeria Alba to bloom?

A: Plumeria Alba can start blooming in its second year of growth but may take up to three years to reach full maturity and produce abundant flowers.

Related Plants

– Plumeria Rubra- Plumeria Obtusa- Plumeria Pudica- Plumeria Stenopetala

References

– “Plumeria Alba.” University of Florida. – “Frangipani (Plumeria).” Gardening Australia. – “Plumeria Alba.” Missouri Botanical Garden.