← Back to TreesNo image
Frangipani
Plumeria rubra
A small deciduous tree from Central America with thick, succulent, milky-sapped branches bearing clusters of highly fragrant flowers in shades of pink, white, and yellow. A staple of coastal and garden ornamental planting in Kenya.
Log in to request a quotation- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Tree type
- ornamental
- Mature height (m)
- 5-8
- Growth rate
- slow-medium
- Lifespan (years)
- 50+
- Native region
- Mexico and Central America
Environment
Growing Conditions
- Climate requirements
- Prefers warm, frost-free conditions; performs best at Kenya's coast and in warm mid-altitude gardens.
- Soil types
- Well-drained sandy or loamy soils; tolerates poor soils but dislikes waterlogging.
- Water requirements
- Low to moderate; drought-tolerant, susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Cultivation
Planting & Care
- Planting guide
- Propagated easily from stem cuttings allowed to callus before planting; space 3-5m apart; best planted in the drier season.
- Care guide
- Minimal pruning; watch for frangipani rust fungus and stem borers; sap can irritate skin/eyes.
Phenology
Flowering & Fruiting
- Flowering season
- Roughly March-October, peaking in warm/rainy months
- Fruiting season
- Occasional long bean-like seed pods
Value
Uses & Economic Importance
- Uses
- Ornamental compound/garden tree valued for fragrant flowers used decoratively (e.g., leis, floral arrangements); no major timber or food use.
- Economic importance
- Popular in coastal tourism landscaping (hotels, resorts) and urban gardens; minor floriculture/decorative trade value.
Not currently listed on the Marketplace. List it →