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Description
Plumeria Rubra, also known as the Red Frangipani, is a tropical tree native to Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. It is a member of the Apocynaceae family and is known for its beautiful and fragrant flowers. The tree can reach a height of up to 30 feet and has a spread of 20 feet. The leaves are large and glossy, and the flowers come in a range of colors, including red, pink, yellow, and white. The flowers are five-petaled and have a sweet fragrance that is particularly strong at night.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Plumeria |
Appearance
The Plumeria Rubra is a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves during the winter months. The leaves are large, glossy, and oblong in shape, and can reach up to 12 inches in length. The flowers are the main attraction of the tree and come in a range of colors, including red, pink, yellow, and white. They are five-petaled, with a yellow center, and have a sweet fragrance that is particularly strong at night. The flowers are typically 2-3 inches in diameter and are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches.
Care Guide
The Plumeria Rubra is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Plumeria Rubra:
- Water: Water your Plumeria Rubra deeply once a week during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce watering during the dormant season (fall and winter).
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Plumeria Rubra with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Plumeria Rubra requires full sun to grow and bloom.
- Hardiness Zones: The Plumeria Rubra is hardy in USDA zones 10-11, but can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Plumeria Rubra is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by a few common issues:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and can be controlled with a miticide.
- Fungal Diseases: The Plumeria Rubra can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. These can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Plumeria Rubra is native to Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. It grows best in tropical and subtropical environments with full sun and well-draining soil. The tree is often used in landscaping and can be found in gardens and parks throughout its native range.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Plumeria Rubra be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Plumeria Rubra can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter in colder climates.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Plumeria Rubra?
A: Fertilize your Plumeria Rubra with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Plumeria Rubra?
A: The Plumeria Rubra is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Q: How often should I water my Plumeria Rubra?
A: Water your Plumeria Rubra deeply once a week during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce watering during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Related Plants
- Plumeria Alba (White Frangipani)
- Plumeria Obtusa (Singapore Plumeria)
- Plumeria Pudica (Bridal Bouquet)
- Plumeria Stenopetala (Chacal)
References
- “Plumeria Rubra.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b439.
- “Plumeria Rubra.” University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp099.
- “Plumeria Rubra.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, www.kew.org/science-conservation/plants-fungi/plumeria-rubra-red-frangipani.
