Templetree

(Plumeria rubra)

Templetree (Plumeria rubra)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Plumeria rubra, commonly known as Templetree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to tropical regions including Central America, Mexico, and Northern South America. It thrives in a variety of habitats such as tropical forests, savannahs, and open woodlands. This species can grow to a height of 2–8 m (5–25 ft) with a similar spread, featuring a thick succulent trunk and blunt, sausage-like branches covered with thin grey bark. The leaves are large, leathery, and typically clustered at the tips of the branches. Plumeria rubra is renowned for its showy, terminal flowers that bloom over the summer. These blossoms are highly fragrant, especially in the morning and evening, with a scent reminiscent of rose, citrus, and cinnamon. The flowers are often profuse and prominent, with five petals that range in color from common pink to white, often with shades of yellow at the center.

Templetree is celebrated for its ornamental value, particularly the beautiful and fragrant flowers that can enhance any tropical or subtropical garden. It is commonly used in landscapes, as a specimen plant, and in containers where it can be moved to protect from cold temperatures. In cultivation, Plumeria rubra requires full sun and well-drained soil, performing best in dry to medium moisture conditions. It is salt-tolerant, making it suitable for coastal areas. While it can adapt to a range of soil types, it does not tolerate wet soils well. In regions with temperatures below 50°F (10°C) during winter, it must be grown indoors or in a greenhouse. Despite its beauty, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are considered poisonous, and care should be taken to avoid ingestion or skin irritation.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 15-25 feet
  • Width: 15-25 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow, Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow, Orange, Pink, Red, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to tropical forests, savannahs, and open woodlands in Central America, Mexico, and Northern South America

Other Names

Common Names: Frangipani, Pagoda-Tree, Red Paucipan, Common Frangipani, Red-Jasmine, Rote Frangipani, Alhelí, Alhelí Cimarrón, Suche, Frangipanier

Scientific Names: , Plumeria rubra, Plumeria acutifolia, Plumeria tricolor, Plumeria bicolor, Plumeria rubra var. acutifolia, Plumeria acuminata, Plumeria mexicana, Plumeria rubra f. acutifolia, Plumeria rubra f. acuminata

GBIF Accepted Name: Plumeria rubra L.