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Plumeria

Plumeria is a genus of flowering plants in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae), commonly known as frangipani.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Plumeria is a genus of flowering plants in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae), commonly known as frangipani. It includes deciduous shrubs and small trees native to tropical America, and many species are grown worldwide as ornamentals for their fragrant flowers. The genus name was published by Carl Linnaeus in 1753 in honour of botanist Charles Plumier.

Description

Plumeria species are typically small trees or shrubs with thick stems, clustered leaves, and fragrant tubular flowers. Flower colours commonly include white, pink, yellow, and red.

Distribution and cultivation

The genus is native to the Neotropical realm, including Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of South America. It has been planted widely across tropical and subtropical regions, notably in Hawaii and other warm-climate gardens.

Taxonomy and naming

Plumeria is a genus in the family Apocynaceae. It was described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753, and the name honours French botanist Charles Plumier.

Uses and cultural significance

Plumeria is primarily grown as an ornamental plant, valued for its fragrance and showy appearance. The flowers are commonly used in garlands and leis, especially in Hawaii.

Key facts

  • Plumeria is a genus of flowering plants in the family Apocynaceae, commonly known as frangipani.
  • Native to tropical America, including Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of South America.
  • Widely cultivated as an ornamental for its fragrant, showy flowers.
  • Flowers are used ornamentally, including in Hawaiian leis.
  • The milky sap can be an irritant and is somewhat poisonous.
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Canadian context

Plumeria is not native to Canada, but it may be grown by Canadian gardeners as a tropical container plant or in indoor collections. Its main relevance for Canadian readers is horticultural and ornamental.

Frequently asked questions

What is Plumeria?
Plumeria is a genus of flowering plants, commonly called frangipani, in the dogbane family Apocynaceae.
Where is Plumeria native to?
It is native to tropical America, including Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of South America.
Why is Plumeria grown?
It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its fragrant, showy flowers.
Is Plumeria the same as jasmine?
No. Despite some common names, Plumeria is not a true jasmine and is not in the genus Jasminum.
Is Plumeria poisonous?
The plant’s milky sap can be an irritant and is somewhat poisonous.
Why is it called Plumeria?
The genus was named by Carl Linnaeus in honour of the botanist Charles Plumier.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plumeria
    Supports: Genus, common name, family, native range, cultivation, species count, and general description.
  2. University of Wisconsin–Madison Extension — https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/plumeria/
    Supports: Genus placement, family, native range, and ornamental use.
  3. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/frangipani
    Supports: Genus description, number of species, ornamental use, fragrant flowers, and propagation.
  4. Oxford University Herbaria — https://herbaria.plants.ox.ac.uk/bol/plants400/Profiles/op/Plumeria
    Supports: Morphology, native range, sap irritant property, and flower characteristics.
  5. Wikidata — https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q218123
    Supports: Canonical genus identification and common name frangipani.