The Plumeria, or Frangipani, is an iconic small tree that’s a quintessential part of many Australian gardens, especially in warmer climates. When in flower, its delightful, sweet perfume can fill a garden, creating a relaxing, tropical vibe. The “assorted” variety typically offers a mix of colours, with flowers ranging from classic white and yellow to vibrant pink, red, and sunset tones. The tree has a distinctive, stout, and gnarly trunk and branches, which are topped with beautiful clusters of large, leathery leaves and a spectacular display of flowers in spring and summer.
Caring for Your Frangipani
- Growing Conditions: Frangipanis thrive in a sunny, well-draining spot. They need at least six hours of sun a day to produce a good show of flowers. They are best suited to warm, frost-free climates, but they can be grown in cooler areas if planted in a pot and moved to a sheltered spot in winter.
- Watering: Water them regularly during the warmer months, especially when they are young. In winter, when the leaves have dropped, they need very little water. Overwatering in winter can lead to rot.
- Feeding: Feed your frangipani with a fertiliser high in phosphorus in spring and summer to encourage a good show of flowers.
- Pruning: Pruning is a great way to maintain its shape and size. You can prune back the branches after flowering, in late summer or autumn. This is also a fantastic way to get cuttings to grow more plants!
Usage in the Garden
The Frangipani is an excellent feature plant. Its bold, sculptural form makes it a perfect focal point in a lawn, a tropical garden bed, or a courtyard. It also looks sensational in a large pot, where its iconic shape and fragrance can be enjoyed on a patio or deck. It’s a fantastic tree for providing dappled shade in summer, and its beautiful flowers are perfect for floating in a bowl of water to create a lovely, fragrant centrepiece.
