Do Plumeria Flowers Fade? Why Colors Change as Blooms Age

One of the most common observations among plumeria enthusiasts is that the vibrant colors of freshly opened flowers often fade or lighten after a few days in the sun. While plumeria flowers are known for their rich, vibrant colors, those colors can change as the blooms age. In this article, we’ll explore why plumeria flowers fade, how sunlight and temperature influence their color, and provide tips for preserving the deepest colors for display purposes.

1. Why Do Plumeria Flowers Fade?

Plumeria flowers begin as vibrant and intense in color, but over time, many cultivars experience a fading of their pigment. This fading is primarily caused by sun exposure and UV light, which can bleach the pigments, especially in certain red and purple tones.

Sunlight and UV Exposure:

• UV Bleaching: The most common reason for fading in plumeria flowers is exposure to UV rays. Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun breaks down the chemical structure of certain pigments in the petals, particularly reds, purples, and sometimes oranges, causing them to lose their intensity.
• Color Fading: Red and purple pigments, which are more sensitive to UV light, tend to fade faster than other colors when exposed to intense sunlight over several days.

Example:

• Red and Purple Flowers: Varieties like ‘Aztec Gold’ or ‘Celadine’, which have red or purple undertones, may start with deep, vibrant colors that lighten as the flowers age, particularly if they are exposed to direct sun for long periods.

2. Temperature Influence: How Cool Temps Affect Flower Color

Temperature can also play a significant role in flower color. While plumeria flowers tend to brighten or fade in warm temperatures, cooler conditions can actually enhance color intensity.

Cooler Temperatures and Richer Colors:

• Cooler Nights and Bright Colors: Plumeria plants that are exposed to cooler temperatures at night or in the early morning (typically 60°F–70°F or 15°C–21°C) often produce richer, deeper colors in their flowers. This is especially true for red, purple, and orange blooms.
• Hotter Conditions and Fading: On the other hand, extreme heat and long periods of direct sunlight can cause the colors to fade more rapidly. In hot climates, plumerias may still bloom, but their colors might not appear as vibrant as those in cooler, more moderate environments.

Example:

• Cooler Climates: In temperate climates or cooler growing conditions, plumerias like ‘Sundown’ or ‘Tahitian’ may show richer orange and pink hues due to the cooler nights and moderate daytime temperatures.

3. How to Preserve the Deepest Colors for Display

If you’re looking to display your plumeria flowers at their peak color, there are several strategies you can use to preserve their vibrancy before they fade:

1. Pick Flowers Early for Maximum Color Intensity:

• Pick Before Full Opening: If you want to showcase plumeria flowers at their deepest color, consider picking the flowers just as they start to open. Freshly opened flowers will have the most intense color before exposure to sunlight begins to cause fading.
• Morning Picks for Maximum Fragrance and Color: Plumeria flowers are usually more fragrant and at their most vibrant in the morning before they are exposed to the heat of the day. Pick them early in the morning to enjoy both the color and the fragrance at their best.

2. Provide Partial Shade:

• Limit Sun Exposure: To prolong the life of your plumeria flowers, consider placing your potted plumeria in a location with partial shade during the afternoon when sunlight is at its most intense. This will help preserve the colors and prevent the flowers from fading too quickly.

3. Use Water or Glycerin for Flower Preservation:

• For cut flowers, submerge the stems in water or use a glycerin solution to preserve their freshness. This can help maintain the appearance and fragrance of the blooms for a longer period.

4. Conclusion: Understanding Plumeria Flower Color Changes

The fading of plumeria flowers is a natural process driven by sunlight exposure and UV light, which break down flower pigments over time. While cooler temperatures can enhance the richness of flower colors, intense heat and prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the blooms to lose their vibrancy more quickly.

Understanding how sunlight, temperature, and time of day affect plumeria flowers will help you manage your expectations and maximize their beauty. Whether you’re growing plumeria in a tropical garden or in a container, you can preserve their deepest color by picking blooms early, providing partial shade, and keeping the plant in moderate temperatures.

By understanding the factors that affect flower longevity and color, you can ensure your plumeria remains a beautiful, vibrant part of your garden throughout its blooming season.