Frangipani

Frangipani

Plumeria rubra
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Conservation Status: LC

The Frangipani is classified as LC under the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Quick Facts & Botanical Stats

Plant Category
Flowering Plants
Growth Habit
Tropical Shrub/Tree
Primary Habitat
Coastal tropical forests, rainforest edges, and warm islands.
Average Lifespan
30 - 50 years
Water Requirement
Low
Maximum Height
2 - 8 m
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Native Region
Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean

Species Overview

Frangipani is a tropical tree world-renowned for its intensely sweet-scented, velvety five-petaled blossoms.

Physical Appearance & Anatomy

Thick succulent branches bearing terminal clusters of white, yellow, or pink pinwheel flowers.

Habitat & Growth Behavior

Sheds leaves during dry seasons to conserve moisture in tropical climates.

Ecological Role & Symbioses

Flowers lure sphinx moths at night with intense fragrance, though they yield no nectar.

Reproduction, Lifecycle & Propagation

Produces twin pod fruits filled with winged seeds.

Conservation Status & Environmental Threats

Widely cultivated and thriving in tropical regions globally.

Interesting Fun Facts

  • Frangipani flowers are traditionally used to weave Hawaiian leis.
  • The flowers emit fragrance primarily at night to deceive nocturnal moths into pollinating them.

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Common Sunflower

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