Plumeria rubra Nebels Rainbow (Frangipani)

Plumeria rubra ‘Nebel’s Rainbow’ (Frangipani) is a deciduous small tree with fleshy, succulent branches boasting large, fragrant, golden yellow flowers, 3 in. across (7 cm), adorned with a reddish band. The overlapping petals are thick, broad with rounded tips. Blooming from late spring to fall, the blossoms exude a mild to heavy frangipani scent.

Plumeria rubra 'Nebel's Rainbow' (Frangipani) is a deciduous small tree with fleshy, succulent branches boasting large, fragrant, golden yellow flowers, 3 in. across (7 cm), adorned with a reddish band. The overlapping petals are thick, broad with rounded tips. Blooming from late spring to fall, the blossoms exude a mild to heavy frangipani scent. They are borne in terminal clusters at the branch tips. Leathery, elliptical, dark green leaves are spirally arranged and clustered at the stem ends. Easy to grow, this Plumeria can be planted in the ground or in containers. Grow it near entryways or walkways to enjoy its flowers and delightful perfume. Flower of choice for leis, Plumeria is the crown jewel of the tropical garden.

  • Typically grows up to 10-12 ft. tall (300-360 cm) and 10 ft. wide (300 cm). Will add 12-24 in. per year (30-60 cm).
  • Performs best in full sun in rich, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Water moderately when in growth, but keep almost dry during the winter months. Salt and drought tolerant.
  • Hardy to Zones 10-12, Frangipani is very susceptible to freezing temperatures and may be grown in containers in cooler areas to be brought indoors. A short cold-snap as low as 40°F or 4°C is the limit for this plant. Any parts of the plant exposed to freezing temperatures will die.
  • If temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), the plant will drop its leaves and go dormant.
  • Perfect addition to beds and borders, coastal gardens, Mediterranean gardens. Great in decorative containers.
  • No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for rot in soils with poor drainage and glasshouse red spider mite.
  • Propagate by ripe cuttings of leafless stem tips in early spring. Allow these to dry thoroughly at the base before inserting them into the rooting medium.
  • Plumeria rubra species is native from Mexico to Panama.
  • Plumeria branches exude a milky sap when injured, that can irritate the eyes and cause dermatitis in susceptible individuals. Mildly poisonous, ingesting leaves or flowers can irritate the digestive tract. If your dog eats Plumeria, he may show mild to severe signs of poisoning.

Requirements

Hardiness 10
– 12

Heat Zones 10
– 11

Climate Zones 12, 13, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2
Plant Type Trees
Plant Family Plumeria – Frangipani
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall
Height 10'
– 12'
(3m
– 3.6m)
Spread 8'
– 10'
(240cm
– 3m)
Water Needs Low, Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy
Tolerance Drought, Salt
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Coastal Garden, Mediterranean Garden