Plumeria obtusa L.

Scientific Name: Plumeria obtusa L.

Family: Apocynaceae 

Common Name: White Frangipani

Hindi Name:  चम्पा 

Description: White Plumeria can grow as a small shrub or tree, between 3 and 20 feet tall, with broad, thick succulent branches often covered in "gnarled" protrusions. The leaves are clustered near the ends of the branches. They are large, 6-22 cm long and 2-7 cm wide, and have a characteristic oval shape with rounded rather than pointed leaf tips like other species.

The leaves are dark and leathery, often shiny on the upper side, with prominent parallel secondary veins running from the midrib to the edge of the leaf. The flowers of this species form clusters at the ends of the branches on long, thick stems. Each inflorescence contains numerous white flowers with small yellow centers. The flower contains five petals that fuse at the base into a short funnel-shaped tube that gradually widens as the lobes of the petal unfurl. The fruit of this species is a dry follicle that splits on one side, releasing winged seeds.

The frangipani is native to the Bahamas and the Greater Antilles in Central America. It is widely grown in tropical climates, especially in East Africa and Asia.

Economic Importance: The most common use of Plumeria obtusa is as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks and other public spaces. Its attractive, fragrant flowers are popular with gardeners and flower lovers. 

Industrial uses:The flowers of Plumeria obtusa are commonly used in the manufacture of perfumes and other fragrances for their pleasant, sweet aroma.  Frangipani flowers are also used to make soap as they contain natural oils which are good for the skin. : The hard, durable wood of the Plumeria obtusa tree is sometimes used in woodworking projects to make furniture, carvings, and other decorative items.

Medicinal uses: In some traditional medicine practices, different parts of the tree are used to treat various ailments. For example, the bark is used to treat diarrhoea, while the sap is used to treat ear infections. Insect repellents: Frangipani sap contains chemicals that are toxic to insects, so it is sometimes used as a natural insect repellent.

Religious Uses: In some cultures, Plumeria obtusa flowers are used in religious ceremonies. They can be used to decorate altars or shrines, or to make wreaths or wreaths.