White Frangipani
plumeria alba
Also known as: ["Frangipani","West Indian Jasmine"]
Overview
A small deciduous tree or shrub known for its fragrant, white, five-petaled flowers and milky sap.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Plumeria |
| Botanical Name: | Plumeria alba |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden bed in frost-free regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–32°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix (e.g., cactus/succulent soil with added perlite or sand).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate (remove up to one-third of growth if needed).
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; move indoors or provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid sudden light changes; use sheer curtains in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in dormancy
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions; dormant in winter below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; keep away from air conditioning vents.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering; avoid fertilizing dormant plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (leafless hardwood cuttings preferred).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut stem, let callus for 1–2 days, apply hormone, plant in medium, keep moist, provide warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (75–85°F / 24–29°C), high humidity (70–80%), bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix (e.g., perlite and sand or cactus mix).
Hormone
Recommended (rooting hormone powder or liquid).
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pot, well-draining medium, plastic bag or dome.
Quick Tips
Allow cut end to callus; use sterile tools; maintain humidity; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut above a leaf node or bud; angle cuts to promote healing.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/diseased wood, encourage branching and flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring before active growth.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; essential for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth (spring/summer); reduce to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter; allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in cold; wilting or scorched leaves in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet in cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure well-drained soil; reduce watering in winter.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration if exposed to excessive heat without adequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) every 2–4 weeks during spring/summer; reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Plumeria alba. The toxic compounds in the plant can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Plumeria alba by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of toxic compounds in the plant. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicPlumeria alba contains small amounts of toxic compounds, primarily in its milky sap, which can cause mild irritation and discomfort upon ingestion or skin contact. The physiological impact is generally limited to localized reactions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Plumeria alba toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Plumeria alba?
A: Water thoroughly when the soil is dry, reducing frequency in winter.
Q: Does Plumeria alba require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun with well-draining soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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