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You’ve just gotten back from an unforgettable vacation to Hawaii and want to recapture the feeling of being in that tropical paradise. One vivid memory you have is of the intoxicating smell and beauty of the lei that was lowered onto your neck upon arrival. Now what were the flowers in that lei – that’s right – it was plumeria (also known as Frangipani)!
These flowers enchanted you at every turn on the Hawaiian landscape. You want to grow plumeria at home but feel geographically disadvantaged because you don’t live in the right planting zone (zone 9-11). Can you grow plumeria inside though? What is required for indoor plumeria care? Read on to learn more.
Hey plant lovers! I’ve been getting tons of questions about growing plumeria (also known as frangipani) indoors. After spending countless hours researching and experimenting with these tropical beauties, I’m excited to share everything you need to know about bringing that sweet island paradise into your home.
Quick Answer
Yes, you absolutely can grow plumeria indoors! But let’s be real – it needs some special attention. The key requirements are:
- At least 5 hours of direct sunlight daily
- Temperatures between 65-80°F
- Good drainage and proper watering
- Regular fertilizing during growing season
Why Grow Plumeria Indoors?
I totally get it – who wouldn’t want those gorgeously fragrant flowers right in their living room? Whether you’re missing that Hawaiian vacation vibe or just love unique houseplants, indoor plumeria can be an amazing addition to your plant family.
Essential Care Guide for Indoor Plumeria
1. Light Requirements
This is probably the most critical factor! Your plumeria needs:
- Minimum 5 hours of direct sunlight daily
- South-facing window placement (ideal)
- Grow lights as supplement if natural light isn’t enough
- Keep grow lights on for 14-15 hours daily
- Position lights on adjustable stands
2. Temperature & Humidity
-
Temperature
- Ideal range: 65-80°F
- Below 50°F triggers dormancy
- Never let it freeze!
-
Humidity
- Maintain 40-50% relative humidity
- Mist leaves morning and evening
- Avoid getting water on flowers
3. Soil & Potting
Perfect Potting Mix:
- Use cactus mix OR
- Create your own mix:
- Equal parts peat and perlite
- Add coarse river sand
- Must be well-draining
Container Choice:
- Wide, heavy pot (plumerias get top-heavy)
- Terracotta works great
- Must have drainage holes
- Avoid self-watering pots
4. Watering Schedule
Here’s my tried-and-true watering method:
- Wait until soil is completely dry
- Drench thoroughly
- Let excess water drain completely
- Repeat only when soil dries out again
Pro tip: Yellow leaves usually mean you’re overwatering!
5. Fertilizing Requirements
For happy blooming plumeria:
- Use fertilizer high in phosphorus, low in nitrogen
- Feed monthly during growing season
- Stop fertilizing during dormancy
- Consider organic options like compost tea
Common Challenges & Solutions
Pest Problems
Spider mites love indoor plumeria! But don’t panic – here’s what to do:
- Regular inspection
- Treat with neem oil when needed
- Maintain good air circulation
- Keep leaves clean
Dormancy Issues
Sometimes indoor plumeria gets confused and goes dormant. Signs include:
- Leaf drop
- Stopped growth
- Looks like bare sticks
Don’t worry! It’s natural and temporary. Maintain regular care and it’ll bounce back.
Tips for Success
- Start with cuttings at least 12 inches long
- Let cuttings dry for a week before planting
- Repot annually in spring
- Prune only dead/dying branches
- Be patient with blooming – plants need 2-3 years to mature
Safety Note
Just a heads up – plumeria isn’t for everyone. Keep in mind:
- All parts are toxic
- Sap can cause skin rashes
- Not safe for pets or small children
- Wash hands after handling
My Final Thoughts
Growing plumeria indoors isn’t the easiest project, but it’s totally doable with proper care and attention. If you’re up for the challenge and can provide the right conditions, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning tropical plant that brings the essence of paradise right into your home.
Remember, every plant parent makes mistakes – don’t get discouraged if things aren’t perfect right away. With patience and consistent care, you can definitely succeed at growing these beautiful tropical treasures indoors!
Would you like me to elaborate on any of these points? I’d love to share more specific details about any aspect of indoor plumeria care that interests you most!
Can You Grow Plumeria Inside?
Yes, you can, and this article will explain the basics of how to grow plumeria plants indoors year-round. You can obtain potted plumeria plants at your local nursery or propagate your own from cuttings.
Make sure your plants or cuttings are potted with a coarse well-draining potting mix. A cactus mix, in particular, should fit the bill. However, you may prefer to concoct your own mix. Everyone seems to have their own creative plumeria blend, but a simple mix of equal parts peat and perlite should be more than sufficient.
Your goal in growing plumeria indoors should be to emulate their natural habitat as close as you can in order to help them grow and flower throughout the year. The following tips on how to grow plumeria indoors will assist you with this goal.
Plumeria indoor care (frangipani houseplant)
FAQ
Are Plumerias good indoor plants?
We do not recommend keeping/growing your plumeria indoors; a shaded patio is ideal!
How long do plumeria blooms last indoors?
Flowers: Blooming from late spring to fall in the Northern Hemisphere, Plumeria bears clusters of showy, waxy flowers at the branch tips. These 2-4 inch-wide (5-10 cm) blooms feature five rounded, overlapping petals in shades of pink, red, white, yellow, or bicolor. Each flower lasts between 1 and 4 days.
What temperature kills plumeria?
Plumeria are delicate during winter; most susceptible to dying when temperatures get to freezing point at 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 Celsius).Dec 29, 2021
Do indoor Plumerias go dormant?
Plumeria may enter a state of dormancy when exposed to prolonged periods of low temperatures, usually below 50°F (10°C).