Bridal Bouquet Plumeria
Plumeria pudica Jacq.
Location
Other Plants
Family
Apocynaceae
Common names
Bridal Bouquet Plumeria, White Frangipani, Everlasting Love
Native range
Panama, Colombia, and northern South America
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical regions
Flowering
Year-round
Fruiting
Year-round
Conservation status
Not threatened; widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide
About this plant
Plumeria pudica is an evergreen, fast-growing shrub or small tree, usually reaching 3–5 metres in height. Leaves are distinctive, long, narrow, and spoon-shaped with a glossy dark-green surface, clustered toward the tips of branches. Unlike many other Plumeria species, the leaves are not deciduous. Stems are thick and fleshy, exuding a milky latex when cut. Flowers are produced in large terminal clusters; they are pure white with a yellow throat, non-fragrant or very mildly scented, and have a pinwheel-like appearance. Fruits are rarely formed; when present, they are paired, elongated follicles containing winged seeds.
Uses
Plumeria pudica is primarily grown as an ornamental plant, valued for its continuous flowering, attractive foliage, and neat growth habit. It is commonly used in gardens, avenues, courtyards, and landscape design. Unlike some other Plumeria species, it has limited traditional medicinal use; however, the latex, like that of related species, is sometimes mentioned in folk practices for minor skin conditions, though it should be used with caution as it may be irritating.
Growing conditions
Thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soils. It is drought-tolerant once established but performs best with regular watering. Plumeria pudica tolerates pruning well and maintains a compact, rounded form. It is tolerant of heat and humidity but sensitive to cold and frost
Habit
Evergreen shrub or small tree