Plumerias, also known as frangipani, are tropical treasures beloved for their stunning, fragrant flowers and vibrant colors. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your plant journey, growing Plumeria can be a rewarding and surprisingly simple experience with the right care. In this blog, we’ll dive into what you need to know about this gorgeous plant and how to care for it—so you can turn your garden, patio, or balcony into a slice of paradise.
About Plumeria
Native to Central America and the Caribbean, Plumeria is a tropical gem that can add a bold splash of color and fragrance to North Texas gardens, especially in pots during the warmer months. It produces gorgeous clusters of five-petaled flowers in shades of white, yellow, pink, red, or even a mix of colors, with a sweet, tropical scent that becomes even stronger at night. The plant’s thick, dark green leaves create a lush backdrop for its vivid blooms. Fun fact: Plumeria flowers don’t actually have nectar—their amazing fragrance tricks pollinators into visiting! And while they look delicate, Plumeria is surprisingly hardy when protected from frost!
Care and Growing Tips
Planting:
In North Texas, Plumeria thrives in containers, making it easy to move indoors during cooler months. Choose a large pot with excellent drainage and plant your Plumeria with the root system just below the soil surface. Spring is the perfect time to plant, once the risk of frost has passed. If you’re starting with a cutting, allow the end to dry and form a protective callous for a few days before planting—this helps ensure healthy growth.
Sunlight:
Plumeria loves the full sun and needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to bloom well. In North Texas, a sunny patio, deck, or south-facing spot is perfect. If grown indoors or in partial shade, the plant may survive, but flowering will be limited. The more sun, the happier your Plumeria!
Soil:
Well-draining soil is essential. Calloway’s Premium Potting Soil provides the perfect foundation, offering excellent drainage while keeping roots lightly moist. Avoid heavy soils that retain too much water. The goal is to keep the roots healthy—moist but never soggy.
Watering:
During the growing season (spring through early fall), water Plumeria deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain freely and never let the plant sit in water. In the winter, when the plant is dormant and may lose its leaves, watering should be drastically reduced or stopped entirely until new growth begins in spring.
Temperature:
Plumeria thrives in warm weather and loves temperatures between 65°F and 85°F. It is not frost-tolerant, so in North Texas, it must be brought indoors or into a garage or greenhouse when temperatures drop below 50°F. A cool, dry spot indoors works well for overwintering—just be sure to wait until spring to move it back outside.
Fertilizing:
To keep your Plumeria healthy and blooming beautifully, fertilizing is key—and Calloway’s Premium Tropical Food is a great choice. This specialized formula is designed to support vibrant blooms and lush growth in tropical plants like Plumeria. It’s rich in phosphorus, which encourages strong flower production, and includes essential nutrients to boost overall plant health. Apply it every two to three weeks during the growing season, typically from late spring through early fall. Just follow the package instructions and always water the plant after feeding to help the nutrients absorb. With regular use, you’ll enjoy more flowers and a happier, more vigorous plant!
Encouraging Plumeria to Bloom
Getting your Plumeria to bloom can feel like a tropical reward after a season of patience and care. Blooms typically appear from late spring through fall, depending on the variety and weather conditions. Each cluster can produce dozens of flowers, though how many—and how often—depends on the specific type of Plumeria you’re growing. Some varieties are naturally more prolific than others, so choosing a reliable bloomer from the start can make a big difference.
Not every branch will flower each season, but the healthier branch tips your plant has, the better your chances. You can improve flower production by giving your Plumeria plenty of sunlight, using a bloom-boosting fertilizer like Calloway’s Premium Tropical Food, and keeping it consistently warm during the growing season. Be sure to remove faded flowers regularly—not only does this keep the plant looking tidy, but it also helps redirect energy into producing more buds instead of seedpods. With a little attention, this tropical plant will reward you with waves of fragrant, show-stopping blooms.
Pottery
Calloway’s and Cornelius offer a wide variety of beautiful, high-quality pottery—perfect for showcasing your favorite tropical plants. Available in a range of colors, styles, and sizes, our pots are ideal for enhancing patios, balconies, or backyard gardens. Each one features essential drainage holes to support healthy roots and prevent overwatering. Choose a container that’s spacious enough to allow for root growth and long-term success. With the right pot, you can create a bold, eye-catching display that thrives all season long.
Shop with Ease
Ready to grow your own tropical oasis? Calloway’s and Cornelius have everything you’ll need to help your plants thrive—from stylish, well-draining pottery to plant food specially made for bold, beautiful blooms. Whether you’re just getting started or fine-tuning your container garden, you’ll find top-quality products and friendly support every step of the way.
Need advice on how to care for your Plumeria or which pot works best? Stop by any of our neighborhood stores and chat with our Texas Certified Nursery Professionals. They’re here to answer your questions and share expert tips, so you can feel confident and inspired in your plant journey. Come explore our garden centers or shop online for easy in-store pickup—your Plumeria paradise starts here!