Plumeria Obtuse

Singapore Plumeria is native to the Bahamas and the Greater Antilles and is frequently cultivated in eastern Africa and tropical Asia. It was introduced to Hawai'i in 1931 by Dr. Harold L. Lyon, who brought the original specimen to Honolulu from the Singapore Botanic Garden – hence its local common name. This historic tree is still growing just above the orchid greenhouse at Honolulu’s Foster Botanical Garden.

In Hawai'i the leaves of Singapore Plumeria persist throughout the year except in hot, dry areas, where they lose about all of their foliage; for that reason the species has been described as “Semi-evergreen.” Flowering peaks during the summer months of July and August, especially in low rainfall areas. Singapore flowers do not last as long as other Plumeria species. Singapore trees can be found along roadsides, in school yards, church property and private homes.

Cultural Uses

• Plumerias are used by women to indicate their relationship status.