What is the scientific classification of the genus *Plumeria*?

The genus *Plumeria* belongs to the subfamily Rauvolfioideae within the family Apocynaceae. Its classification includes Plantae as the kingdom, Tracheophytes as a clade, Angiosperms as a clade, Eudicots as a clade, Asterids as a clade, Gentianales as the order, and Plumeriinae as the subtribe.

What is the common name often associated with the genus *Plumeria*, and what is its pronunciation?

The genus *Plumeria* is also commonly known as frangipani. The pronunciation of *Plumeria* is given as /pluːˈmɛriə/.

Where is the genus *Plumeria* primarily native to, and where is it often grown as an ornamental?

The species within the genus *Plumeria* are native to the Neotropical realm, encompassing regions from Mexico and Central America, through the Caribbean, and as far south as Brazil, and as far north as Florida in the United States. They are frequently cultivated as cosmopolitan ornamentals in tropical regions, such as Hawaii, and in hot desert climates with adequate irrigation, like the Arabian Peninsula.

In whose honor is the genus *Plumeria* named?

The genus *Plumeria* was named in honor of Charles Plumier, a 17th-century French botanist and Catholic monk who explored the New World and documented numerous plant and animal species.

What is the origin of the common name "frangipani"?

The name "frangipani" originates from a 16th-century Italian marquis of the noble Frangipani family. This marquis created a synthetic perfume that resembled the scent of the plumeria flower.

What are the general physical characteristics of *Plumeria* plants?

Most species of *Plumeria* are deciduous shrubs or small trees. Their branches are succulent, and the trunk and branches exude a milky latex sap.

What is contained within the milky sap of *Plumeria* species, and what are its effects?

The milky latex sap found in the trunk and branches of *Plumeria* species contains poisonous compounds. Similar to other plants in the Apocynaceae family, this sap can irritate the eyes and skin.

How do the leaves of different *Plumeria* species vary in appearance and characteristics?

Leaves of *Plumeria* species exhibit variation in shape and arrangement. For instance, *P. alba* has narrow, corrugated leaves, while *P. pudica* features elongated, glossy, dark-green leaves. *P. pudica* is noted for its evergreen nature, and *P. obtusa*, commonly known as "Singapore plumeria," is semi-deciduous and retains leaves and flowers through winter.

When do *Plumeria* trees typically bloom, and where are their flowers located?

Plumeria trees generally flower from early summer through the fall. Their blossoms emerge in clusters at the tips of the stems.

Describe the structure and appearance of *Plumeria* flowers.

The flowers of *Plumeria* have a tubular corolla measuring 2 to 4 inches (5.1 to 10.2 cm) in length. This tube sharply divides into five rounded, waxy petals that overlap each other. They are available in a variety of colors, including pink, red, white, yellow, and orange, and possess separate anthers.

What is the characteristic fragrance of *Plumeria* flowers, and what scent notes are commonly perceived?

Plumeria flowers are known for being highly fragrant, with their scent often intensifying at night. The aroma is perceived to combine floral notes reminiscent of jasmine and gardenia, citrusy elements, fruity notes like coconut and peach, and undertones of vanilla and lactonic or woody accords.

Do *Plumeria* flowers produce nectar?

No, *Plumeria* flowers do not produce nectar.

How do *Plumeria* flowers achieve pollination in the absence of nectar?

Plumeria flowers attract sphinx moths through their strong fragrance. These moths pollinate the flowers in a fruitless search for nectar, transferring pollen from one bloom to another.

What role does pollination play in the creation of new *Plumeria* varieties?

Pollination, whether by insects or humans, can lead to the development of new *Plumeria* varieties. Seeds resulting from cross-pollination may produce plants with characteristics inherited from the mother tree or exhibit entirely distinct flower appearances.

What is the structure of the fruit produced by *Plumeria* plants?

The fruit of *Plumeria* separates into two follicles, each containing winged seeds.

Approximately how many accepted species are recognized within the genus *Plumeria*, and how many are considered synonyms?

As of January 2024, the genus *Plumeria* includes approximately 18 accepted species, with over 100 other names recognized as synonyms.

List some of the accepted species of *Plumeria* and their native regions as per Plants of the World Online.

According to Plants of the World Online, some accepted species include: *Plumeria alba* (Puerto Rico, Lesser Antilles), *Plumeria clusioides* (Cuba), *Plumeria cubensis* (Cuba), *Plumeria ekmanii* (Cuba), *Plumeria emarginata* (Cuba), *Plumeria filifolia* (Cuba), *Plumeria inodora* (Guyana, Colombia, Venezuela), *Plumeria krugii* (Puerto Rico), *Plumeria lanata* (Cuba), *Plumeria magna* (Hispaniola), *Plumeria montana* (Cuba), *Plumeria obtusa* (West Indies, southern Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Florida), *Plumeria pudica* (Panama, Colombia, Venezuela), *Plumeria rubra* (Mexico, Central America, Colombia, Venezuela), *Plumeria × stenopetala* (Hispaniola), *Plumeria subsessilis* (Hispaniola), *Plumeria trinitensis* (Cuba), *Plumeria tuberculata* (Hispaniola, possibly Cuba, Bahamas, Jamaica), and *Plumeria venosa* (Cuba).

Which *Plumeria* species are noted as potentially being synonyms of *Plumeria obtusa* var. *sericifolia*?

The species *Plumeria lanata* (Cuba), *Plumeria sericifolia* (Cuba), *Plumeria trinitensis* (Cuba), and *Plumeria tuberculata* (Hispaniola, Bahamas) are considered potential synonyms of *P. obtusa* var. *sericifolia*.

What genera were formerly included within the genus *Plumeria*?

Several species were formerly included in the genus *Plumeria* but are now classified under other genera, primarily *Himatanthus*. Examples include *Plumeria ambigua*, *Plumeria angustiflora*, *Plumeria bracteata*, *Plumeria drastica*, *Plumeria hilariana*, *Plumeria martii*, *Plumeria obovata*, and *Plumeria speciosa*, all of which are now placed within *Himatanthus*. *Plumeria retusa* is now classified under *Tabernaemontana*.

How can *Plumeria* be propagated from cuttings?

Plumeria can be propagated by taking cuttings from stem tips in the spring. After allowing the cut ends to dry, they should be planted in well-drained soil. It is important to note that cuttings are susceptible to rot in overly moist soil conditions.

What is the recommended treatment for *Plumeria* cuttings to encourage rooting?

To aid in the callusing process and encourage rooting, it is recommended to apply rooting hormone to the clean, fresh-cut end of the *Plumeria* stem tip before planting.

Besides cuttings, what other vegetative propagation method is mentioned for *Plumeria*?

In addition to cuttings, *Plumeria* can also be propagated through grafting onto an already established, rooted system.

How many *Plumeria* cultivars were registered by The Plumeria Society of America as of 2009?

As of 2009, The Plumeria Society of America had registered 368 distinct cultivars of *Plumeria*.

What symbolic significance have plumerias held in Mesoamerica since the Maya and Aztec periods?

In Mesoamerica, plumerias have carried significant symbolic meaning for over two millennia. Among the Maya, they were associated with deities representing life and fertility, and also became linked to female sexuality. During the Aztec Empire, the Nahuatl-speaking people used plumerias to signify elite status, planting them in the gardens of nobles.

How are plumerias used in modern Polynesian culture, particularly in Hawaii?

In several Pacific islands, including Hawaii, plumerias were introduced in the late 19th century and are commonly used for making leis. In Hawaii, the flower is known as 'melia'. Culturally, women in modern Polynesian societies may wear the flower over the right ear if they are seeking a relationship, and over the left ear if they are already in a relationship.

What is the national flower of Laos, and what is its local name?

The national flower of Laos is *Plumeria alba*, known locally as "champa" or "dok champa." It is also featured as the logo for Lao Airlines.

How is plumeria perceived in Bengali culture, particularly in relation to funerals?

In Bengali culture, most white flowers, and specifically plumeria (known as 'chompa' or 'chãpa' in Bengali), are traditionally associated with funerals and death.

What role does plumeria play in Indian incense, such as nag champa?

Plumeria is often an ingredient in Indian incenses, particularly those named "champa." For example, nag champa incense incorporates plumeria fragrance, often combined with sandalwood. While plumeria is used, the exact proportion varies, and other tree resins like Halmaddi and benzoin resin, along with floral ingredients like champaca, geranium, and vanilla, are frequently added to create a more intense, plumeria-like aroma.

How are plumeria flowers used in wedding ceremonies in the Western Ghats of Karnataka?

In the Western Ghats region of Karnataka, India, brides and grooms exchange garlands made of cream-colored plumeria flowers during their wedding ceremonies. Red-colored flowers are not used in weddings in this area, and plumeria plants are commonly found in local temples.

What is the significance of plumeria in Sri Lankan tradition, particularly in relation to worship and historical art?

In Sri Lankan tradition, plumeria is associated with worship. A notable example is found in the frescoes of the fifth-century Sigiriya rock fortress, where one of the depicted heavenly damsels holds a five-petalled flower that is indistinguishable from a plumeria.

How are frangipani flowers referenced in Swahili love poems?

In East Africa, frangipani flowers are sometimes referenced in Swahili love poems, suggesting their presence and symbolic use in romantic expressions within that culture.

Have any *Plumeria* species been studied for their potential medicinal value?

Yes, some species within the *Plumeria* genus have been investigated for their potential medicinal properties.

What musical composition was inspired by the Plumeria, and who composed it?

The Plumeria, also known as Pomelia, inspired the musical piece "Pomelie - Miniature for Two Guitars." This composition was created by Carlo Francesco Defranceschi, an Italian composer, and was dedicated to Duo Imbesi Zangarà.

Describe the trunk of a frangipani tree as depicted in the provided image.

The source material includes an image showing the trunk of a frangipani tree located in Kolkata, West Bengal, India.

What does the image labeled 'Leaves' depict?

The image labeled 'Leaves' shows the foliage of a *Plumeria* plant.

What does the image labeled 'Fruit' show?

The image labeled 'Fruit' displays the fruit of a *Plumeria* plant.

What does the video depict?

The video shows a time-lapse sequence of a *Plumeria* (frangipani) flower opening.

What is shown in the image of a frangipani tree in bloom in Bugibba, Malta?

The image shows a frangipani tree in full bloom, located in Bugibba, Malta.

What cultural use of plumeria is illustrated in the image from Hawaii?

The image illustrates that plumeria is commonly used to create leis, which are floral garlands, in Hawaii.

What is depicted in the image of red plumeria found in Nashik, India?

The image displays a red plumeria flower that was found in Nashik, India.

What is shown in the image of red frangipani found in Malaysia?

The image features a red frangipani flower that was found in Malaysia.

What is depicted in the image of plumeria from the Jardin des Plantes de Lille, France?

The image shows a plumeria plant located in the Jardin des Plantes de Lille, in Lille, France.

What does the image of fallen plumeria from Bangalore, India, illustrate?

The image shows fallen plumeria flowers that were observed in Bangalore, India.

What is depicted in the image labeled 'Pink frangipani'?

The image shows a pink-colored frangipani flower.

What is illustrated in the image of white plumeria found at Andhra Pradesh?

The image displays a white plumeria flower that was found in the region of Andhra Pradesh.

What does the image of white plumeria from Kozhikode, Kerala, show?

The image depicts a white plumeria flower located in Kozhikode, Kerala.

What is shown in the image of *Plumeria rubra* in Israel?

The image displays *Plumeria rubra*, a species of plumeria, located in Israel.

What does the image of Plumeria (Indian Champa) in Surat, India, illustrate?

The image shows a plumeria plant, identified as Indian Champa, located in Surat, India.

What is depicted in the image of hot pink frangipani in full bloom?

The image captures a hot pink frangipani flower in a state of full bloom.

What does the image of a flowering tree of *Plumeria rubra* in Tel Aviv, Israel, show?

The image features a flowering tree of *Plumeria rubra* that is used for decoration in a garden in Tel Aviv, Israel.

Plumeria Wiki: Plumeria: A Botanical Exploration of the Frangipani Genus

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Nomenclature and Etymology

Genus Name: Plumeria

The genus Plumeria is formally recognized in honor of Charles Plumier, a distinguished 17th-century French botanist and Catholic monk. Plumier's extensive travels throughout the New World provided invaluable documentation of numerous plant and animal species, significantly contributing to botanical knowledge.^[5] The name Plumeria itself is frequently employed within horticultural contexts.^[6]

Common Name: Frangipani

The widely used common name, "frangipani," originates from a 16th-century Italian marquis of the noble Frangipani family. This family was noted for creating a synthetic perfume that evoked the scent profile of plumeria flowers.^[7]^[8] While regional variations exist, "frangipani" remains the most prevalent designation for plants within this genus.

Morphological Characteristics

Habit and Sap

Plumeria species typically present as deciduous shrubs or small trees. Their branches exhibit succulent properties, and the trunk and branches exude a milky latex sap. This sap contains compounds recognized for their toxicity, capable of causing irritation to the eyes and skin, a characteristic shared with many other members of the Apocynaceae family.^[9]^[10]

Foliage

The leaves of Plumeria are typically arranged at the terminal ends of branches. Variations in leaf shape and phyllotaxis (arrangement of leaves) are observed across different species and cultivars. For instance, P. alba possesses narrow, corrugated leaves, while P. pudica displays an elongated, glossy dark-green foliage. Notably, P. pudica is among the cultivars that exhibit continuous blooming and non-deciduous, evergreen leaves. Similarly, P. obtusa, often referred to as 'Singapore plumeria', is semi-deciduous and retains its leaves and flowers through the winter months.^[11]^[12]

Floral Characteristics and Fragrance

Blooming and Structure

Plumeria trees typically flower from early summer through autumn. The blossoms emerge in terminal clusters, each composed of a tubular corolla approximately 2 to 4 inches (5.1 to 10.2 cm) in length. The petals are distinctly lobed, with five rounded, waxy segments that overlap. These flowers are available in a diverse palette of colors, including pink, red, white, yellow, and orange shades.^[11]^[4]

Fragrance and Pollination

The flowers are renowned for their potent fragrance, particularly pronounced during the night. Their scent profile is complex, often described as a blend of floral notes reminiscent of jasmine and gardenia, citrus undertones, and fruity aromatic qualities such as coconut and peach, complemented by lactonic and woody accords. Intriguingly, these flowers yield no nectar. Instead, their captivating fragrance serves to attract sphinx moths, tricking them into pollinating the flowers during their fruitless search for sustenance.^[13]

Reproduction and Cultivars

Cross-pollination, whether through insect activity or human intervention, can lead to the development of new plumeria varieties. Offspring derived from cross-pollinated seeds may exhibit characteristics inherited from the maternal parent or display unique floral appearances. The Plumeria Society of America has documented a substantial number of registered cultivars, indicating significant horticultural interest and development within the genus.^[14]^[18]

Taxonomic Classification

Accepted Species

As of current botanical consensus, the genus Plumeria encompasses approximately 18 accepted species, with numerous others classified as synonyms. Prominent accepted species, according to Plants of the World Online, include Plumeria alba, native to the Caribbean and Mexico, and Plumeria rubra, which spans from Mexico to Colombia and has naturalized globally.^[3]

Synonyms and Related Genera

The taxonomic history of Plumeria includes several species that have been reclassified into other genera, most notably Himatanthus and Tabernaemontana. For example, Plumeria ambigua is now recognized as Himatanthus bracteatus. This taxonomic fluidity underscores the importance of consulting authoritative databases for precise classification.^[3]^[15]

Horticultural Propagation

Vegetative Methods

Plumeria can be effectively propagated through vegetative means, primarily via stem tip cuttings. The optimal time for propagation is spring. Cuttings should be allowed to dry and callus at their base before being planted in well-draining soil media to mitigate the risk of rot. The application of rooting hormone can enhance the success rate of callus formation and root development.^[17]

Seed Propagation and Grafting

Propagation by seed is also feasible, though resulting plants may exhibit variations from the parent stock. Grafting onto established root systems is another recognized method for propagating Plumeria, ensuring the transmission of specific cultivar traits.^[17]

Cultural Significance and Symbolism

Mesoamerican Heritage

In Mesoamerica, Plumeria has held profound symbolic meaning for millennia, dating back to the Maya and Aztec civilizations. Among the Maya, these flowers were associated with deities representing life and fertility, and became strongly linked to female sexuality. The Aztecs utilized plumerias to signify elite status, adorning the gardens of nobility with these trees.^[19]

Southeast Asian Associations

Introduced to the Philippines around the 1560s, plumerias became associated with graveyards, their strong fragrance used to mask the odor of decomposition. This symbolism extended to neighboring regions like Ternate, Malaysia, and Indonesia, where they are still linked to ghosts and cemeteries. In Malaysian and Indonesian folklore, the scent is associated with the Kuntilanak, a vampiric spirit.^[20]^[21] Balinese Hindus incorporate plumeria flowers into temple offerings.

Pacific Island Traditions

Across various Pacific islands, including Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga, where plumerias were introduced in the late 19th century, they are integral to the tradition of making leis. In Hawaii, the flower is known as 'melia'. Culturally, women wear the flower to indicate their relationship status: over the right ear if available, and over the left if already in a relationship.^[22]^[23]

South Asian and Sri Lankan Significance

In Laos, Plumeria alba is the national flower, known locally as "champa," and is featured in the logo of Lao Airlines. In Sri Lanka, it is referred to as "Araliya" or "Temple Flower," considered sacred and used in worship. Bengali culture associates plumeria, known as chômpa, with funerals, while in the Western Ghats of India, cream-colored plumeria garlands are exchanged during weddings.

Artistic Inspirations

Musical Composition

The aesthetic and aromatic qualities of the Plumeria, referred to as 'Pomelia' in artistic contexts, inspired the composition "Pomelie - Miniature for Two Guitars." This piece was created by Franco-Austrian composer Carlo Francesco Defranceschi and dedicated to the Duo Imbesi Zangarà. The composition was released in 2021, with its sheet music published concurrently.^[28]

Visual Compendium

Image Showcase

This section is conceptually designed to present a diverse array of visual representations of Plumeria species and their cultural applications. It would typically feature images showcasing various colors, forms, and contexts of the plant, such as its use in leis, its presence in different geographical locations, and close-ups of its distinctive floral structures. Due to technical constraints, actual images are not displayed here, but the intent is to provide a comprehensive visual reference.

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References

College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR). Ornamentals and Flowers. Feb. 1998. OF-24.

http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-161613 The Plant List (RBG, Kew, MBG) access date: 2015-02-26

http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-161615 The Plant List (RBG, Kew, MBG) access date: 2015-02-26

A full list of references for this article are available at the Plumeria Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence system. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily Wikipedia, and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness, the information may not be entirely up-to-date or exhaustive.

This is not professional botanical or horticultural advice. The information provided herein should not substitute consultation with qualified botanists, horticulturalists, or agricultural experts. Always seek professional guidance for specific plant care, cultivation, or identification needs. Reliance on any information provided in this document is solely at your own risk.

The creators of this content are not liable for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this information.

Plumeria: A Botanical Exploration

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Nomenclature and Etymology 🏷️

🌿 Genus Name: Plumeria

🌸 Common Name: Frangipani

Morphological Characteristics 🍃

🌳 Habit and Sap

🌿 Foliage

Floral Characteristics and Fragrance 👃

🌺 Blooming and Structure

🎶 Fragrance and Pollination

🌱 Reproduction and Cultivars

Taxonomic Classification 🏛️

📜 Accepted Species

🔄 Synonyms and Related Genera

Horticultural Propagation 🌱

✂️ Vegetative Methods

🧬 Seed Propagation and Grafting

Cultural Significance and Symbolism 🎭

🌍 Mesoamerican Heritage

👻 Southeast Asian Associations

🏝️ Pacific Island Traditions

🙏 South Asian and Sri Lankan Significance

Artistic Inspirations 🎶

🎵 Musical Composition

Visual Compendium 🖼️

📷 Image Showcase

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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Explore More Topics

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Nomenclature and Etymology

Genus Name: Plumeria

Common Name: Frangipani

Morphological Characteristics

Habit and Sap

Foliage

Floral Characteristics and Fragrance

Blooming and Structure

Fragrance and Pollination

Reproduction and Cultivars

Taxonomic Classification

Accepted Species

Synonyms and Related Genera

Horticultural Propagation

Vegetative Methods

Seed Propagation and Grafting

Cultural Significance and Symbolism

Mesoamerican Heritage

Southeast Asian Associations

Pacific Island Traditions

South Asian and Sri Lankan Significance

Artistic Inspirations

Musical Composition

Visual Compendium

Image Showcase

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice