The Plumeria, also known as Frangipani or Temple Tree, is a captivating plant that graces the gardens and landscapes of Madeira. With its botanical name Plumeria rubra, this deciduous species belongs to the Apocynaceae family. Originally native to regions such as Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and Venezuela, Plumeria has become a beloved addition to tropical and subtropical climates across the globe.
Plumeria rubra is cherished for its elegant, spreading tree form and the vibrant clusters of flowers it bears. These blossoms, which appear in stunning shades of pink, white, and yellow, grace the bare branch tips during the summer and autumn. The fragrant beauty of this flower has earned it various common names, including Frangipani and Temple Tree. In Nicaragua, it holds the title of national flower.
The first description of this species is credited to Carl Linnaeus, the eminent father of taxonomy, who included it in the 1753 edition of Species Plantarum. The genus name honours Charles Plumier, a French monk and botanist renowned for his travels and botanical contributions.
The name “Frangipani” traces back to a 16th-century Italian nobleman famed for creating a perfume reminiscent of the Plumeria’s scent. Today, this fragrance remains a popular ingredient in a variety of scented products, from soaps and candles to high-end perfumes by Chanel and Versace.
In Hawaii, Plumeria rubra is an essential crop, with over 14 million flowers sold annually for use in leis and decorative purposes. In Cambodia and other Asian cultures, the flowers are often used in religious offerings, adorning temples, deities, and even coffins.
One intriguing aspect of Plumeria rubra is its latex-producing branches. When broken, these branches exude a white latex that can irritate the skin and mucous membranes. In Madeira, this latex gave rise to the local nickname “teeth tree”, as it was historically used to alleviate toothache pain.
Madeiran gardens boast not only the Plumeria rubra but other varieties as well, featuring flowers in a spectrum of colours from red to pink and white. These diverse and vibrant trees enhance the floral diversity of the island, making them a must-see attraction for nature enthusiasts.
#Plumeria #Madeira #Frangipani #FloralBeauty #NatureLovers
