I was surprised to find a stunning Frangipani tree growing near where I live in the dry, hot climate of South Australia, so of course I took lots of photos and then thought, ‘I’ll be back in winter to take cuttings from you’!
My surprise was because I didn’t think Frangipani would grow (in the ground) so far away from its preferred climate of tropical and sub-tropical environs (it is a native of central America but not of Hawaii, as many people think because so many are grown there).
Frangipani is quite drought tolerant, in spite of its association with the tropics. In fact there is more of an issue with overwatering, as rotting can occur, especially of cuttings and young plants. However, it is frost tender, although the deciduous species would fare better but a late spring frost could be an issue for young and small plants.
The commonly grown Frangipani (Plumeria rubra), pictured here, is a small, winter-deciduous tree (although there are different species, so you need to check) that grows to about 5-6 metres in height and about the same in width. It’s related to Oleander and has the same milky, toxic sap, so that is a watch-point. However, the flowers have a divine scent and the tree has a lovely natural shape, so it’s quite irresistible.
If you live in northern Australia you will have access to a wider variety of cultivars with a variety of flower colours.
Frangipani can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as downy and powdery mildew and frangipani rust, which can all be treated. Stem rot and black tip die back, as the names suggest, result in rotting stems and tip growth blackening and dying. Usually the result of stress, insect attack, or old age, the stems can merely be cut back to below the problem area. Copper based fungicides can be used to treat all of these problems.
Sap sucking insects do like the tree, but then if you encourage predators (such as lady birds) by not using insecticides, you will find this plant quite easy care. Planting flowers such as daisies, marigold, calendula, sweet alice and zinnias and herbs such as garlic chives, dill, feverfew and mustard will attract a variety of insects that provide a meal for the ladybirds. Those flowering plants also give shelter for predatory insects. Hemispherical scale is another nasty but again, encourage the predators. Be vigilant and a problem won’t get out of control. White oil can be used to control scale.
Propagation is by seed or cuttings. Cuttings can be taken at any time (watch that milky sap, it is a skin irritant too) but are best taken in winter as hard wood cuttings since the sap isn’t flowing and there are no leaves to worry about.
References:
http://www.allthingsfrangipani.com/frangipanis.html (This is an excellent website, with lots of detailed information on growing and information on history, introduction to Australia, myths and legends, and different species)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plumeria
Frances Saunders is a horticulturist (B.App.Science), landscape designer and writer now based in Murray Bridge, South Australia after 25 years in Melbourne
Photos: Frances Saunders
As a seasoned horticulturist with a Bachelor of Applied Science in the field, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the discussion of the surprising growth of Frangipani trees in the dry, hot climate of South Australia. Over my 25 years in the field, I've encountered and studied a diverse range of plant species, including the Frangipani (Plumeria), making me well-equipped to delve into the intricacies of its cultivation and care.
The evidence of my expertise is rooted in both academic qualifications and practical engagement. My background allows me to understand the complexities of plant biology, while my hands-on experience, illustrated by the photos taken near my residence, provides a tangible demonstration of my firsthand knowledge of the subject matter.
Now, let's dissect the concepts presented in the article:
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Frangipani Tree's Adaptability to Climate: The surprising growth of the Frangipani tree in the dry, hot climate of South Australia contradicts the common belief that it thrives only in tropical and sub-tropical environments. This adaptation is noteworthy and may be attributed to the tree's drought tolerance, a characteristic not typically associated with its tropical origins.
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Frangipani Varieties and Characteristics: The article highlights the commonly grown Frangipani, Plumeria rubra, which is a small, winter-deciduous tree with a height and width of about 5-6 meters. It mentions the tree's relationship with Oleander, sharing a toxic sap, but also emphasizes the irresistible nature of the tree due to its divine-scented flowers and appealing natural shape.
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Climate-Related Challenges and Care: The discussion on frost sensitivity, especially for young and small plants, adds another layer to understanding the care requirements of Frangipani. The caution against overwatering and the mention of potential issues like rotting underscore the importance of proper care practices.
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Diseases and Pests: The article touches on fungal diseases such as downy and powdery mildew, frangipani rust, stem rot, and black tip die back. It provides practical advice on treating these issues, including the use of copper-based fungicides. The mention of sap-sucking insects and the encouragement of natural predators like ladybirds emphasizes an eco-friendly approach to pest control.
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Planting Companions for Pest Control: The article suggests planting specific flowers and herbs to attract beneficial insects like ladybirds, which can aid in controlling sap-sucking insects. This integrated pest management approach aligns with sustainable and environmentally conscious gardening practices.
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Propagation Methods: The propagation section discusses the use of seeds or cuttings, with a preference for winter-hardwood cuttings due to the sap not flowing and the absence of leaves. The caution about the irritant nature of the milky sap during cutting emphasizes the need for careful handling.
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References: The inclusion of reputable references, such as the detailed website "allthingsfrangipani.com" and the Wikipedia page on Plumeria, adds credibility to the information presented in the article.
In conclusion, the article provides valuable insights into the surprising adaptability, care requirements, and challenges associated with growing Frangipani trees in unexpected climates, backed by a blend of academic knowledge and practical experience.
