How to Grow Plumeria from Seeds: A Complete Guide

Plumeria, also known as frangipani, is a beautiful tropical flower that thrives in warm climates. With its colorful and fragrant blooms, plumeria makes a great addition to gardens and landscapes in frost-free areas.

While plumeria is commonly propagated from cuttings, you can also grow it from seeds. Growing plumeria from seeds takes time and patience, but it’s an affordable way to produce new plants. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about planting plumeria seeds and caring for seedlings.

An Overview of Growing Plumeria from Seeds

• Plumeria seeds must be fresh to have the highest chance of germinating Seeds start losing viability after 2-3 months

• It takes 9-10 months for plumeria seed pods to mature and split open to release the seeds. Mature pods are reddish-brown and start to crack open.

• Each pod contains 30-40 winged seeds that need to be planted soon after collection, Store seeds in a breathable container like a paper bag until planting

• Optimal soil temperature for germination is 70°F. Seeds sprout in 5-21 days when kept warm.

• Seedlings are fragile and should be transplanted when they develop 2-3 sets of leaves. Fertilize lightly after transplanting.

• Plumeria grown from seeds take 2-3 years to flower. Bloom color and traits will differ from the parent plant.

Follow these steps for the highest germination rates when planting plumeria seeds.

How to Plant Plumeria Seeds

Step 1: Collect and Prepare Fresh Seeds

• Identify plumeria seed pods on plants – they turn brown/reddish when ripe

• Place mesh bags or cheesecloth over pods to catch seeds when they split open

• Or collect fallen pods, remove pulp strands and let seeds dry for 1-2 weeks

• Store dried seeds in breathable containers like paper bags in cool dry place

Step 2: Prepare Seed Trays and Planting Mix

• Use seed trays or starter pots with drainage holes, 2-3 inches deep

• Prepare light, fast-draining mix like 2 parts potting soil to 1 part perlite

• Moisten mix well but don’t saturate it before planting

Step 3: Plant the Seeds

• Make depressions in the soil mix about 1⁄4-1⁄2 inch deep

• Place 1 seed in each depression flat side down, with wing tip exposed

• Gently cover seeds with mix and water thoroughly after planting

• Move trays to warm area (70°F) with indirect sunlight

Step 4: Care for Germinating Seeds

• Keep soil moist but not soaked while waiting for sprouts

• Seeds sprout in 10-21 days – watch for cotyledons (first leaves)

• Carefully remove seed coat once cotyledons open without damaging sprout

• Mist seeds with water to soften coat for easy removal

• Transplant seedlings after 2-3 sets of true leaves emerge

Step 5: Transplant and Grow On Seedlings

• Move sprouts to 3-4 inch pots filled with potting mix when ready

• Bury transplant up to the first leaves to support stem

• Feed with diluted liquid fertilizer or use slow-release pellets

• Grow on in warm area with plenty of indirect sunlight

• Transplant to larger containers as needed until planting outdoors

Tips for Growing Healthy Plumeria from Seeds

• Start seeds in early spring for best germination rates and seedling growth

• Keep seeds and seedlings in temperatures above 60°F

• Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil become dry, avoid overwatering

• Grow seedlings on a bright windowsill or under grow lights

• Rotate plants periodically for even growth

• Pinch back tips to promote bushy, compact plants

• Feed every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer

• Repot frequently in the first year as seedlings grow quickly

• Move outdoors after the last frost date once plants are established

• Provide warm temperatures, full sun, and excellent drainage

• Bloom time is 2-3 years from seed, be patient for flowers!

What to Expect from Plumeria Grown from Seed

The major downside to growing plumeria from seeds is that seedlings will not resemble the parent plant. Plumeria grown from cuttings maintain the characteristics of the mother plant, while seeded plumerias have random genetics.

Here’s what to expect with plumerias started from seeds:

• Seedlings will have different flower colors, shapes, and traits than parent

• Solid color plumeria seeds produce more color variations

• Seeds from multicolor varieties yield more consistent colors

• Flowering often starts in year 2-3 from seed

• Seedlings need 3+ years of growth to reach mature sizes

• Plants grown from seeds are slower growing than cuttings

• Overall, higher variability and slower growth than propagated plants

Despite unpredictability, growing plumeria from seeds is an enjoyable way to produce unique new plants. Take good care of seeds and seedlings to offset the slow growth. With patience, plumeria grown from seeds develop into beautiful, rewarding garden specimens.