Plumeria Traits and Characteristics Guide

The Plumeria Traits and Characteristics Guide delves into the essential traits that define plumeria plants, offering a comprehensive look at the various features that make each cultivar unique. This guide explores key characteristics such as flower form, color, and fragrance, along with growth habits, leaf shape, and branching patterns. Whether you’re identifying plumeria varieties or simply gaining a deeper understanding of what distinguishes each cultivar, this guide serves as a valuable resource. It helps you recognize the subtle nuances that contribute to the beauty and individuality of every plumeria, enhancing your ability to select and appreciate the perfect varieties for your collection.

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How Plumerias Get Their Names: The Rules and Traditions

How Plumerias Get Their Names: The Rules and Traditions

Naming a plumeria cultivar is an important part of the breeding process, as it not only serves to identify the plant but also often carries with it a deeper personal significance or honor. Whether it’s named after the breeder, a loved one, or due to its unique characteristics, the name of a plumeria cultivar reflects both the traditions of the plumeria community and the formal naming rules established by international codes.

In this article, we’ll explore how plumerias get their names, including the formal rules for naming cultivars, the naming traditions followed by breeders, and the guidelines set forth by the Plumeria Society of America (PSA) and the International Code of Nomenclature.


1. Formal Naming Rules for Plumeria Cultivars

The formal rules for naming plumeria cultivars are established to maintain consistency and avoid confusion in the plant world. These rules are part of the International Code of Nomenclature and are followed by plumeria breeders and registries such as the Plumeria Society of America (PSA).

Key Naming Rules:

  • Cultivar Names Are Capitalized: Cultivar names are always capitalized, but they are not Latinized like botanical names. For example, ‘Celadine’ and ‘Firestorm’ are the correct ways to write plumeria cultivar names.
  • Single Quotes: When writing about plumeria cultivars, the names should be placed in single quotation marks. For example, ‘Celadine’, ‘Mai Tai’, and ‘Hawaiian Sunset’ are the proper ways to write cultivar names.
  • No Use of ‘Variety’ or ‘Hybrid’ in the Name: According to international guidelines, the terms ‘variety’ and ‘hybrid’ should not be used in the cultivar name. Plumeria hybrid cultivars are identified by their unique names without these descriptors. For example, ‘Aztec Gold’ is the cultivar name, not ‘Aztec Gold Hybrid’.

Why These Rules Matter:

  • These rules help ensure that the naming of cultivars is consistent, clear, and recognized worldwide. Adhering to proper naming conventions makes it easier for plumeria enthusiasts, breeders, and gardeners to communicate about plants, especially when registering and cataloging them.

2. Naming Traditions: From Breeders to Honoring Loved Ones

In addition to the formal rules, there are several traditions in plumeria naming that can reflect the breeder’s personal connection to the plant or cultural significance.

Naming After the Breeder:

  • One common practice in plumeria breeding is to name the cultivar after the breeder or discoverer of the plant. For example, the ‘Bill Moragne’ cultivar was named after Bill Moragne Sr., a renowned plumeria hybridizer in Hawaii. This tradition honors the work and legacy of the breeder, giving them recognition for their contributions to the plumeria world.

Honoring a Person:

  • Sometimes, cultivars are named in honor of a person, such as a family member, friend, or notable figure. For instance, ‘Daisy Wilcox’ was named after a woman who was a close friend of the breeder. Naming plumerias after loved ones is a meaningful way to create a lasting tribute.
  • Personalized Names: Some breeders also choose to name their cultivars after personal experiences, places, or events in their lives. These names are often rich in emotional significance and reflect the breeder’s connection to the plant.

Descriptive Naming:

  • Another tradition involves naming cultivars based on their distinct characteristics, such as flower color, size, or growth habit. Cultivars like ‘Firestorm’ (due to its vivid red and orange color) and ‘Rainbow’ (for its multicolored blooms) reflect the aesthetic qualities of the flowers. This descriptive approach makes it easier to recognize a plant’s appearance and traits at a glance.

3. PSA Guidelines and the Importance of Proper Naming

The Plumeria Society of America (PSA) plays an important role in maintaining proper naming conventions for plumeria cultivars. The PSA’s guidelines ensure that cultivars are correctly registered, named, and cataloged, keeping the plumeria world organized and ensuring consistency.

PSA Naming Guidelines:

  • No Offensive Names: According to PSA rules, plumeria cultivars must not have offensive or inappropriate names. This ensures that plumeria breeding and naming remains respectful and inclusive for all.
  • Official Cultivar Registration: The PSA also facilitates the registration of plumeria cultivars, which helps track the parentage and traits of each cultivar. This registry helps ensure that cultivars are not duplicated or misrepresented and that their lineage is documented for future generations.
  • Cultivar Name Submission: When submitting a new cultivar for PSA registration, breeders must provide documentation and a detailed description of the plant, including the flower color, size, fragrance, and parentage.

4. Conclusion: The Meaning Behind Plumeria Cultivar Names

Plumeria cultivars are not just beautiful plants—they also carry deep meaning through their names. Whether named after the breeder, a loved one, or based on the plant’s distinctive characteristics, each name tells a story and adds to the rich tradition of plumeria cultivation.

By understanding the formal rules and naming traditions, plumeria enthusiasts can better appreciate the history and significance behind their favorite cultivars. Proper naming conventions ensure clarity, consistency, and respect within the plumeria community, helping to preserve the legacy of these beloved plants for generations to come.

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