Learn everything about the beautiful and fragrant plumeria in Hawaii. I’m Olivia Sophia, and in this guide, I will give you all the information from their history and cultural significance to growing tips and where to buy them.
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Hawaii is incredibly beautiful, offering a splash of vibrant colors throughout your garden, and has a deep cultural significance in the Aloha State.
If you want to bring a little tropical paradise to your backyard, consider buying or growing Hawaiin frangipani!They can grow in the desert as well. Here’s how!
Frangipani in Hawaii
Let me start with a little bit of culture, history, and types of plumeria from Hawaii because this post is the ultimate guide to Hawaiin frangipani.
History of Plumeria in Hawaii
Contrary to popular belief, the plumeria flower is not native to Hawaii. Instead, it originated from Brazil to Mexico and the Caribbean in tropical America.
In Hawaii, they call plumeria “Melia,” meaning “backyard flower.” Plumeria’s history in Hawaii is inseparably connected with the cultural and spiritual past of the islands.
The people of Hawaii adore the Kingdom’s first ruler, Kamehameha I, with plumeria leis.
According to the local legends, plumeria was linked to Pele, the Hawaiin goddess of the volcanos and fire. It symbolized death and renewal, a beautiful reminder that life is cyclical.
Look at the Hawaiian plumeria named after the goddess, The Plumeria Madame Pele:
Early Polynesian settlers introduced plumeria to Hawaii, who brought them from their homelands in the Pacific. Gradually, the trees became naturalized in Hawaii and can now be found all over the Islands.
In the 19th century, Western explorers and botanists began to explore plumeria and cultivate new hybrids. It is said that a German biologist, Dr. William Hillebrand, brought frangipani to Hawaii in late 1860.
The frangipani tree was planted in various locations around the Hawaiian Islands, and it quickly thrived in Hawaii’s warm climate and volcanic soil.
Consequently, Hawaii has become a hub of plumeria growers and lei makers. The fragrant bloom is widely used as decorations throughout Hawaii, especially during special occasions like weddings or graduations.
Plumeria in Hawaiin Culture
If you want to add a bright splash of color and a heady scent to your garden, the frangipani flower is just the answer!
The beauty of this flower is more than skin deep; it has a rich significance in Hawaiian culture. Plumeria has been used in lei-making and hula performances. It’s often associated with positive emotions, such as love and spirituality.
Planting some of these fragrant blooms will bring a touch of paradise to your backyard — it’s also a wonderful way to honor traditions and celebrate Hawaiian culture!
Types of Plumeria from Hawaii
Stunning frangipani varieties in Hawaii, including “Hilo Beauty” with dark red blooms and spicy scent, white “Singapore” with round-tipped petals, and “Kauka Wilder” with a strong sweet fragrance. Look at more types of plumeria found in Hawaii:
Plumeria Rubra:
With its beautiful and scented petals in shades of pink, red, yellow, and white, this plumeria species is widely grown in Hawaii. These flowers are popularly known for their vibrant hues that bloom with a captivating fragrance all around!
Plumeria Obtusa:
Under the Mexican and Central American sun, this plumeria species is renowned for its vivid yellow or cream-hued blossoms.
Plumeria Pudica:
With its exquisite scent, this particular species of plumeria hails from Central and South America, featuring dainty blossoms in the colors of white and yellow. But it’s widely found in Hawaii.
Plumeria Acutifolia:
Characterized by its strong, sweet fragrance and yellow or white blossoms, this plumeria found in Hawaii is native to Mexico.
Plumeria Alba:
This type of plumeria found in Hawaii is native to the Caribbean and is known for its fragrant white flowers.
Factors Influencing Plumeria Types in Hawaii
The specific types of plumeria that can be grown in Hawaii depend on various factors, including the climate, soil conditions, and suitable planting materials.
Where to Buy Plumeria Cuttings and Plants in Hawaii?
Check out your local nurseries and garden centers to buy frangipani cuttings or plants in Hawaii.
Local nurseries are the best place to purchase cuttings or plants as they’ll be more adapted to the climate in Hawaii. You can also find frangipani for sale online, with many sellers offering direct delivery to homes in Hawaii.
Why Grow Plumeria from Hawaii
Plumeria is a popular flowering plant native to Central America and the Caribbean and has become a symbol of Hawaii for its sweet fragrance and vibrant blooms.
Growing frangipani in Hawaii is easy with its ideal climate and minimal maintenance requirements. However, you must transplant plumeria after every 2-3 years.
Keep reading to learn more about creating your Hawaiian plumeria paradise!
1/ Ideal Climate of Hawaii
Hawaii offers perfect conditions for growing this tropical plant:
- Hawaii’s warm temperatures are between 60 – 90°F.
- Plenty of sunlight.
- High humidity.
- Well-drained soil.
- And regular watering.
The Hawaiian climate allows for easy growth without pruning or fertilizing, making it an ideal choice for those with busy lifestyles or limited gardening knowledge.
2/ Variety of Species of Plumeria
Over 300 different frangipani species are available in various colors & fragrances that can create an attractive garden.
Whether you prefer the light pink of ‘Tahitian Princess’ or the bright yellow of ‘Golden Sunset,’ there will surely be a frangipani variety that will fit your taste. You can even mix and match different varieties to create a unique combination!
3/ Attract Pollinators
This beautiful flower provides an aesthetically pleasing landscape and contributes to the local environment by attracting pollinators and other beneficial insects into your yard.
This helps create a healthier environment while offering food sources for Hawaii’s birds & butterflies. Plus, if you have fruit trees in your yard, they will also benefit from additional pollination!
In Short
Growing plumeria in Hawaii is not only easy but also provides many benefits:
- Creating a beautiful landscape.
- Attracting pollinators and other beneficial insects into your yard.
- And contributing to the local environment.
With its ideal climate and minimal maintenance requirements, anyone can turn their backyard into their little paradise with these vibrant blooms! So why not give it a try?
When to Grow Plumeria in Hawaii
The best time to grow frangipani in Hawaii is spring or early summer. This allows the plant to establish itself before summer’s hot and dry conditions arrive.
When growing from cuttings, it’s essential to let them dry for a few days before planting, as this allows the cut end to heal and reduces the risk of rot. The cuttings should be planted in a well-drained soil mixture and kept moist until they begin to root.
Once the roots have formed, the plant can be moved to a sunny location and grow and flower.
You can grow plumeria outdoors year-round in Hawaii, but you must protect it from frost and cold temperatures.
The plumeria plant is perfect for Hawaii’s warm and humid climate, as it can blossom in your garden with proper care.
How to Plant Hawaiin Frangipani
Propagating plumeria in Hawaii is a relatively simple process that can bring color and fragrance to your garden.
1/ Get frangipani cuttings
You can grow plumeria from seeds, but it is easiest to grow from cuttings. You can get the cuttings from friends, nurseries, or online sources.
Choose healthy cuttings about 6 to 8 inches long with at least two nodes, the small bumps on the stem where leaves grow from.
2/ Let the cuttings dry
Before planting, let the cuttings dry for a few days. This allows the cut end to heal and reduces the risk of rot.
3/ Prepare soil mixture:
In Hawaii, frangipani prefers well-drained soil. A mixture of equal parts sand, perlite, and peat moss works well.
4/ Plant the cuttings
Plant the cuttings about 2 inches deep in the soil mixture, and bury at least one node. Water the cuttings well and keep the soil moist until they begin to root.
5/ Provide sunlight
Once the cuttings have rooted, move them to a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. You can grow plumeria outdoors year-round in Hawaii, but you must care for it and protect it from frost and cold temperatures.
6/ Water regularly
During the growing season, water the plumeria regularly, but not over-water, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
7/ Fertilize and Prune
Fertilize the plumeria monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the frangipani regularly to encourage new growth and maintain the plant’s shape.
Enjoy the plumeria blooms in Hawaii.
Once the frangipani is established, it will begin to produce blooms. Enjoy the vibrant colors and sweet fragrances of the plumeria in your garden!
Following these simple steps, you can grow a beautiful, fragrant plumeria in Hawaii. With its hardiness and low maintenance, this plant is an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels.
Caring for Hawaiian Plumeria
Let me give you quick tips for caring for plumeria in Hawaii.
Overwatering
Be mindful of watering your plumeria, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure the soil has proper drainage, and only water your plumeria when the top inch of soil is dry.
Common Pests
You can deal with common plumeria pests in Hawaii, such as mealybugs, scale, and spider mites, using a solution of dish soap and water or an insecticide.
Sunburn
In Hawaii, plumeria plants can be exposed to intense sunlight. To prevent sunburn, place your plumeria in an area that receives partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
Wind damage
Strong winds in Hawaii can cause damage to plumeria trees, so it is essential to plant them in a protected area or to support them, such as stakes or trellis.
Fungal Diseases
To ensure your plumeria is free from fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, cultivate it where fresh air can flow freely and avoid overpopulation. Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide if you notice any signs of fungal disease,
These tips will help your plumeria plants stay in prime condition and flourish in the unique climate of Hawaii.
FAQs for Growing Frangipani in Hawaii
I have given my best to make this post the ultimate guide to plumeria in Hawaii. So let me answer a few questions frequently asked about it.
When do plumerias bloom in Hawaii?
Plumerias are in season in Hawaii from mid-May through October. Peak blooming season is usually in July and August, although some varieties bloom year-round. During this time, the trees can have multiple blooms at once, with new flowers always opening.
How much do plumeria cuttings cost in Hawaii?
You’ll be surprised to get pink or red frangipani for $2 or more in Hawaii. Other varieties may cost slightly more, but prices generally range between $2-5 per cutting. Some stores sell three plumeria cuttings for $20-$30.
What is the most common plumeria in Hawaii?
Plumeria Rubra, commonly known as the Red Frangipani, is the most common plumeria in Hawaii. It is usually grown as a shrub or small tree up to 12 feet tall and can bear beautiful red flowers throughout spring, summer, and fall.
