Temple Tree Flower
Plumeria rubra (and other Plumeria spp.)
Temple Tree, universally known as Frangipani, is a small tropical tree whose waxy, intensely fragrant flowers in shades of white, yellow, pink, and red are among the most recognizable and revered blooms in the world — sacred in Buddhist and Hindu tradition, iconic in Hawaiian leis, and synonymous with the beauty of the tropical world.
Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)
Late spring through autumn (April–November) in tropical climates; summer in cultivation
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: roses and carnations also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Frangipani is among the most symbolically loaded flowers in the world, with layered sacred and cultural meanings across vastly different traditions. In Buddhism and Hinduism, the tree is planted at temples and shrines throughout South and Southeast Asia — its sweet fragrance an offering to the divine, and its blooms used in puja rituals and garlands for deities. In Bali, Plumeria flowers are placed in daily offerings (canang sari) and are the most visible floral symbol of Balinese spiritual life. In Hawaiian culture, frangipani is woven into leis symbolizing love, respect, and aloha. In Malaysia and Indonesia, frangipani is associated with the supernatural and is sometimes planted in cemeteries, earning it the name "graveyard flower" in parts of Southeast Asia — but this association is specific to certain cultures and should not overshadow its overwhelmingly positive sacred symbolism elsewhere.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for prolific flowering
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant; susceptible to root rot if overwatered; reduce watering in winter dormancy
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Sandy loam, Slightly acidic to neutral, Tolerates poor soils
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in full sun and extremely well-drained soil — root rot is the most common cause of death
Water deeply but infrequently; allow soil to dry out between waterings
Reduce watering completely when leaves drop in winter — the plant is dormant and requires very little moisture
In cooler climates, grow in containers and move indoors before first frost; keep almost dry during winter
Propagate easily from thick stem cuttings allowed to callous for 1–2 weeks before planting
Feed with a phosphorus-rich fertilizer during the growing season to maximize flowering
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Specimen tree in tropical gardens and courtyards
- Container plant for patios and terraces in cooler climates
- Sacred planting at temples, shrines, and cemeteries throughout Asia and the Pacific
- Fresh flowers used in Hawaiian leis and garlands
- Cut flowers for offerings, table arrangements, and bridal work
- Perfumery — frangipani fragrance is one of the most widely used floral scents in the world
Traditional Uses
- Bark and latex used in traditional medicine across Southeast Asia and the Caribbean for treating skin conditions, rashes, and venereal diseases
- In Ayurvedic medicine, Champa flowers are used in preparations for fever, inflammation, and as a perfume in therapeutic practices
- Flower infusions are used in traditional medicine in parts of Southeast Asia for treating high blood pressure
- Note: all parts of the plant produce a milky latex that can cause skin irritation; handle with care
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Temple Tree Flower
What does the Temple Tree (Frangipani) flower symbolize?
Temple Tree (Frangipani) symbolizes devotion, spiritual grace, and new life. Across Buddhist and Hindu traditions it represents the purity of the soul and dedication to the divine. In Hawaiian culture it symbolizes love and welcome. Its universal associations center on positivity, sacred beauty, and the connection between the human and the divine.
Why is Frangipani called the Temple Tree?
Frangipani is called the Temple Tree because it is traditionally planted at Buddhist and Hindu temples throughout South and Southeast Asia. Its sweet, long-lasting flowers are offered to deities in daily worship rituals, and the trees themselves are considered sacred presences within temple grounds across countries including India, Thailand, Bali, and Sri Lanka.
Is Frangipani the same as Plumeria?
Yes. Frangipani and Plumeria are different names for the same plant. Plumeria is the scientific genus name, while Frangipani is the widely used common name derived from a 16th-century Italian marquis who created a perfume with a similar scent. Both names refer to the same group of fragrant tropical flowering trees.
Which Frangipani color has the strongest fragrance?
White and yellow Frangipani varieties (particularly Plumeria obtusa and Plumeria rubra f. lutea) are generally considered to have the most intense and classic sweet fragrance. Pink and red varieties also have beautiful scents, though typically somewhat milder. Fragrance intensity can vary significantly between individual cultivars regardless of color.
Can I grow Frangipani indoors?
Yes, Frangipani grows well in containers and can be kept indoors in bright, sunny conditions. In cooler climates it thrives on a sunny windowsill or conservatory in summer and requires a warm, dry, frost-free space during winter dormancy when it drops its leaves and needs very little water.
Is Frangipani toxic?
Frangipani produces a white milky latex sap that can cause skin and eye irritation and is toxic if ingested by humans or animals. While not among the most deadly plants, it should be kept away from children and pets, and gloves should be worn when pruning or handling broken stems.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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