Hawaiian Plumeria, also known as Frangipani and Temple Tree, is a tropical tree that grows well in central and south Florida. It is cold hardy in USDA Hardiness zones 10 and 11, but is often grown in zone 9 with cold protection during freezing weather. It can be grown in containers in north Florida.
The tree is covered with fragrant flowers from spring through the entire summer, adding color and interest to the landscape. The flowers are used in arrangements and in making Hawaiian Lei necklaces.
Grow Hawaiian Plumeria from cuttings. Cut branches 1 to 2 feet long to propagate new trees. Remove the leaves and flower stalks from the branch and place the bare branch in a shady spot to dry and heal for three to five days. Grow new Plumeria by inserting the cut end several inches into moist soil. Keep the soil moist while roots develop. Smaller cuttings with leaves attached can be inserted into the soil without drying.
Plant Plumeria where it can spread out. The tree will grow to be up to 25 feet tall and just as wide. Choose a well-drained location with full sun or light shade.
Protect Hawaiian Plumeria from freezing weather. Cover small trees with tarps or blankets when freezing weather is expected. Bring container-grown trees indoors.
Apply a super bloom fertilizer during the spring and summer blooming season.
Protect Hawaiian Plumeria from damage during lawn care. The bark is thin and the tree branches are soft and break easily if hit.
Prune Hawaiian Plumeria to remove damaged branches and shape the tree. Remove trimmings and dead leaves from the area to prevent the spread of disease.