Landscape Uses
Style Tags
South Florida Growing Guide
Light Requirements
Water Requirements
Once established (12–18 months), Plumeria is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
DROUGHT TOLERANT. Water only 1-2x per week during GROWING season (May-October). Reduce to monthly or ZERO during dormancy (November-March). Plumeria in South Florida requires LESS water than most people give it. Overwatering during dormancy causes stem and root rot — the primary failure cause. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings during growing season.
Soil and Fertilization
Fertilizer: High-phosphorus fertilizer (low nitrogen) — e.g., 10-50-10 or Plumeria-specific fertilizer
Schedule: May and August only during active growing season. High-phosphorus fertilizer encourages flowering.
Salt Tolerance
- Mature Height
- 15–30 ft
- Mature Width
- 10–20 ft
- Growth Rate
- moderate
- Water Demand
- 2/10
- Florida Grade
- Florida #1
- Installed Cost
- $$
- USDA Zones
- 10a, 10b, 11
- FLEPPC Status
- None
- Iguana Rating
- 5/10
Where to Buy in South Florida
Find Plumeria at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Plumeria grow in South Florida?
Plumeria has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.
Is Plumeria safe for pets?
Plumeria is not safe for pets. ALL PARTS TOXIC to dogs and cats — milky sap contains glycosides that cause vomiting, diarrhea, and serious GI distress. Severity can be significant if bark or flowers are ingested. Not recommended for landscapes where animals can directly access plant material. ASPCA confirms toxicity.
How much water does Plumeria need in South Florida?
Low water needs (2/10). Once established (12–18 months), Plumeria is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Can Plumeria tolerate salt air in South Florida?
Plumeria has moderate salt tolerance (5/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.
Is Plumeria available in Miami-Dade County?
In Miami-Dade County, Plumeria is classified as: allowed. Allowed.
County Availability in South Florida
Miami-Dade County
Allowed. Not on prohibited list.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.
View County Guide →Broward County
Allowed. Popular in Broward County residential and commercial landscapes.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.
View County Guide →Palm Beach County
Allowed. Good performance in southern Palm Beach County.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.
View County Guide →Collier County
Allowed. Very popular in Naples and Marco Island resort and residential landscapes.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.
View County Guide →Monroe County
Allowed. ICONIC in Key West and throughout the Florida Keys — the quintessential Keys ornamental tree.
✓ Coastal OK
USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.
View County Guide →Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.
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Ask about Plumeria
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