Fiddleneck
plumeria pudica
Also known as: ["Bridal Bouquet","Wedding Bouquet"]
Overview
A tropical deciduous shrub with attractive, fern-like leaves and small, white, fragrant flowers.
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 pudica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden in frost-free areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix; cactus or succulent mix with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors with supplemental grow lights if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; place near south-facing window indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions; dormant in winter below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth, monthly in spring and fall
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil to avoid root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood); can also be propagated from seeds, though slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 6–8 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite, sand, and peat moss; can also use cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pot, well-draining medium, plastic wrap (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus for a day before planting; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems to shape the plant; avoid cutting into old wood unless necessary.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or crossing branches; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure bottom drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix.
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 of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid waterlogging by ensuring proper drainage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase during active growth in spring and summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in winter; apply mulch for insulation.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch or yellowing; reduced flowering in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) every 2–4 weeks during growing season (spring to summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Plumeria pudica leaves or sap may experience mild gastrointestinal upset. The sap can also cause mild skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Plumeria pudica leaves or sap by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The sap may also cause mild skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPlumeria pudica contains small amounts of toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Plumeria pudica toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Plumeria pudica require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: How often should I water Plumeria pudica?
A: Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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