Red frangipani (Plumeria rubra)

Also known as: Red-jasmine, Common frangipani

The Red Frangipani (Plumeria rubra) is a deciduous shrub or small tree originating from Central and South America. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant contains high levels of alkaloids, making all its parts toxic if ingested.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Red frangipani

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Plant Height

2 m to 8 m

Spread

4.5 m to 8 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Color

Pink Yellow Red White Orange

Images of Red frangipani

Quickly Identify Red frangipani

To identify Plumeria rubra, look for its distinctive large, leathery leaves and the red-tipped petals of its fragrant flowers. The plant also has thick, fleshy branches and a generally sparse appearance.

Scientific Classification of Red frangipani

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

Family

Dogbane

Genus

Plumeria

Species

Red frangipani

Planting and Growing of Red frangipani

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-80℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Red frangipani?

When watering Plumeria rubra, ensure that the water is thorough but not excessive. Water until you see it draining from the bottom of the pot, which indicates the soil is properly saturated. This usually equates to about 500 ml of water per watering session, but always check that the soil is dry before adding more.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Red frangipani?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Plumeria rubra benefits from both full sun and partial sun situations. Ideally, exposing it to around 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily maximizes its developmental processes, ensuring optimal growth and abundant flowering.

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Red frangipani?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 80℉

Plumeria rubra thrives best in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F. This temperature bracket provides the ideal climate for photosynthesis and general metabolism, essential for healthy growth and flowering of the plant.

What Soil is Best for Red frangipani?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Plumeria rubra requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot. This quality is essential for healthy growth and vibrant blooms, as it allows for good aeration and proper nutrient uptake. The plant thrives in soil enriched with organic material. Nutrient-rich soil promotes robust growth and abundant flowering, ensuring the plant receives the necessary minerals for optimal health. While plumerias prefer dry conditions, they require some moisture retention. Moderate moisture levels ensure the roots remain hydrated without becoming waterlogged, supporting consistent growth and vitality. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Red frangipani?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Plumeria rubra, using a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio like 10-10-10 or 10-15-10 is ideal. During the growing season, use a diluted liquid fertilizer, typically half the strength recommended on the label, to prevent root burn. Slow-release fertilizers can be applied using about 1/2 cup per plant, depending on the size and growth stage. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Red frangipani?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

When pruning Plumeria rubra, make clean cuts at a slight angle just above a node. Cutting at an angle prevents water from pooling on the cut surface and reduces the risk of rot. Focus on opening the interior of the tree by removing crossed branches, which will allow more sunlight and air circulation, reducing the likelihood of disease. Prune the tree to maintain an open, vase-like shape. This helps distribute light evenly throughout the plant and supports healthy blooms. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Red frangipani plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring,Late spring

If you choose seed propagation, collect seeds from matured Plumeria pods. Ensure the pods are dry and browning as this indicates readiness. Once harvested, remove the seeds and allow them to dry for a few days before planting.

For cutting propagation, select a healthy stem from a mature Plumeria rubra plant. Use sterilized pruning shears to cut a 12-inch section. Leave the cutting to dry for about a week in a shaded area to form a callus on the cut end.

Plant seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil consistently moist. For cuttings, insert the callused end into a potting mix after treating with rooting hormone. Water sparingly until roots establish properly to prevent rot.

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How to Repot Red frangipani plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

It's time to repot Plumeria rubra when its roots begin to encircle the pot's edges or when growth becomes stunted. Another sign is if the water drains too quickly, signaling compacted soil. Ideally, choose a warm day in Spring or Summer, as the plant is more active during these seasons and can recover from the stress more efficiently.

Choose a pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one, ensuring there is room for root growth. Opt for a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A terracotta pot can be ideal as it allows the soil to dry faster compared to ceramic or plastic pots, thus promoting healthy root conditions.

The ideal soil for repotting Plumeria rubra is a well-draining potting mix. A blend containing a mix of cactus potting soil with added perlite or sand works well to ensure water drains quickly. Good drainage helps mimic the plant's natural environment and prevents root rot by avoiding water retention in the soil.

Toxicity of Red frangipani

Is Red frangipani toxic to humans?

The red frangipani, upon ingestion or contact, poses a risk to humans because of the toxic substances inherent in the plant. The adverse effects from consuming the plant are generally mild and stem from the alkaloids present within it. Nearly all parts of the plant are toxic with the exception of its flowers. Consumption of any of these plant parts may lead to stomach discomfort, while direct contact with the toxic sections can cause skin irritation. If you need to handle this plant for gardening activities, particularly when trimming it, it's advisable to wear gloves to prevent exposure to its sap.

Is Red frangipani toxic to cat?

The red frangipani plant presents a toxic threat to cats. Should a cat accidentally consume any portion of the red frangipani, it can result in various health issues. Signs of poisoning may manifest as noticeable discomfort and distress in the animal. It is essential for cat owners to watch for any unusual behaviors or indications of illness in their pets. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial for any cat that has consumed red frangipani, as prompt professional assistance can significantly impact the health and recovery of the affected cat.

Is Red frangipani toxic to dog?

The red frangipani plant is regarded as toxic to dogs. When dogs consume any part of this plant, they risk experiencing poisoning due to its inherent toxicity. Dogs may inadvertently eat red frangipani while exploring the outdoors or when they come across fallen leaves or flowers. Every part of the plant, including its leaves, flowers, and stems, contains harmful elements that can adversely affect a dog's well-being. Signs of poisoning in dogs can manifest as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and excessive drooling. In more severe scenarios, ingestion can lead to critical symptoms like irregular heart rate or skin irritation. It is vital for dog owners to ensure their pets do not have access to red frangipani and to keep a close eye on them if they are in proximity to this plant. If there is any suspicion that a dog has ingested part of the red frangipani, it is essential to seek urgent veterinary assistance, as swift intervention can be crucial for the dog’s recovery.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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