Our Experience
We have spent years observing which varieties grow well in which conditions. Also, how small frangipani plants grow compared to more advanced trees. We have been growing frangipanis on our current property since 2012. Some of our groups of frangipanis get morning shade only, some get afternoon shade only, some get little or no sun during winter and some are in full sun all year round. Some get watered often and some get watered less often.
Our Knowledge
Here are three points important points.
- Frangipanis that are kept in wet conditions and get less than three hours of sunlight can easily become unhealthy and possibly die. Continuous excess moisture, especially during winter, can create rot to start, and spread in the roots. Known as “root rot”.
- Frangipanis that are in bags and pots and get full sun or in our hothouse need watering up to twice a week in the hottest weeks. Biggest pots and bags are fine with less frequent watering.
- Frangipanis in both cool positions and full sun need well-drained soil. On the other hand, using course bark compost can dry out too fast.
- Frangipanis that are moved from a shady position to a sunny position in summer can get sun damage. Especially small frangipani plants and varieties with dark flowers.
- All frangipanis grow better in nutrient rich, well drained, slightly acidic soil.
Disclaimer
Even though we have extensive knowledge about frangipanis growing on our property, we are unable to predict accurately how a frangipani will grow in another location, especially locations a long way from our nursery.
Our Definition of Hardiness
Since frost and cold winter mornings can do the most damage to frangipanis, the ability to survive cold temperatures is the most important factor for us when thinking about hardiness.
The second factor is the ability to withstand all other adverse conditions such as too much or not enough water, too much or not enough nutrients or too much or not enough sunlight.
Our Frangipani Hardiness Ratings
Plumeria rubras with bright flower colours including white, light and dark pink, light orange, most yellow are the hardiest.
Plumeria pudica white is quite hardy but it has thin branches so needs more water and nutrients and cannot handle weed spray at all.
Plumeria rubras with dark flowers such as red and Razzmic Honey also grow better in warm positions but prefer shade more than full sun, until they become established.
Plumeria pudica pink and Plumeria obtusa require a warm protected position to look their best.
Plumeria obtusa pink and Plumeria stenophylla are the most delicate and require warm protected positions.