Singapore Graveyard Flower
Plumeria obtusa
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About this plant
Plumeria obtusa, commonly known as Singapore Graveyard Flower, is a small tropical tree or shrub known for its fragrant, white flowers with yellow centers. It has thick, glossy green leaves and a rounded growth habit. This plant is often used in gardens and landscapes for its beautiful and sweet-smelling flowers, which attract pollinators like butterflies.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Plumeria
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Gentianales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Caribbean, Central America
- Distribution
- Native to the Caribbean and Central America, Plumeria obtusa is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Southeast Asia and Hawaii.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 40 °C
- Optimal
- 20–30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10–12
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or loamy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the growing season but allow the topsoil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilizing. Feed Plumeria obtusa with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers as they can reduce flowering. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks for best results.
Plumeria obtusa is a moderately easy plant to care for. It prefers sunny spots and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root problems, so allow the soil to dry between waterings. It may need occasional pruning to maintain shape and encourage flowering.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–summer
Fragrant white flowers with yellow centers, glossy green leaves, rounded shrub form.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
The sap can cause skin irritation in some people. Keep away from children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion, which may cause mild stomach upset.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Plumeria obtusa can produce pollen that may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, such as sneezing or itchy eyes. People who are allergic to pollen should handle the plant with care and avoid inhaling pollen during its flowering period.
Common problems
Common problems include root rot from overwatering, leaf spots from fungal infections if kept too wet, and occasional pest issues like aphids or spider mites.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive and fragrant flowers, often used in landscaping and tropical gardens.
Notes
Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove dead wood. Repot young plants every 2-3 years to refresh soil. Protect from temperatures below 10°C (50°F).