Multi-Petal Plumerias: Meet the Cultivars with 6, 7, or More Petals

Plumeria flowers are admired for their stunning beauty and delicate five-petal structure, but some plumeria cultivars produce blooms with more than the usual five petals. These multi-petal plumerias are a fascinating rarity in the plumeria world, and they intrigue collectors and horticulturists alike. While most plumeria flowers feature five symmetrical petals, a select few cultivars may occasionally produce 6, 7, or even more petals. In this article, we’ll take an advanced look at these multi-petal plumerias, discuss how common they are, and profile the cultivars known for their unusual petal counts.

What Are Multi-Petal Plumerias?

Typically, plumeria flowers feature five petals arranged symmetrically around the central stamen. However, some varieties of plumeria may produce flowers with additional petals. These multi-petal blooms can range from 6 to 7 petals and, in rare cases, may even have more than that. The extra petals are often the result of genetic mutations, hybridization, or sometimes environmental conditions that encourage increased petal development. These blooms can add a layer of complexity and intrigue to plumeria gardens, making them highly sought after by collectors.

How Common Are Multi-Petal Plumerias?

Multi-petal plumerias are not extremely common, and when they do occur, it is often the result of a genetic variation or hybridization. Most plumeria cultivars will predominantly produce five-petal flowers, but some cultivars have been selectively bred for their tendency to produce more petals. In other cases, multi-petal blooms may appear occasionally within a cultivar, depending on factors like growing conditions, stress, or mutations.

Generally, the appearance of multi-petal flowers in a cultivar is considered an unusual but exciting occurrence, which is why these plumerias are often prized by collectors.

Known Multi-Petal Plumeria Cultivars

Here are a few plumeria cultivars that are known for producing multi-petal flowers with 6, 7, or more petals. These varieties are often celebrated for their unique flower structures and can be highly sought after by plumeria enthusiasts.

Plumeria ‘Siam Red’

• Petal Count: Typically 6 petals
• Description: Plumeria ‘Siam Red’ is a stunning variety that is known for its rich, crimson-red flowers. This cultivar is unique not only for its vibrant color but also for its tendency to produce flowers with 6 petals instead of the standard 5. The extra petals give the bloom a fuller, more dramatic appearance, making it a favorite among collectors.
• Flower Characteristics: The blooms of ‘Siam Red’ are large, with a strong, sweet fragrance. The extra petal adds volume and intensity to the flower, making it stand out in gardens.
• Growing Tips: ‘Siam Red’ prefers full sun and well-draining soil. This variety is also relatively easy to grow and is suitable for both ground planting and container growth.

Plumeria ‘Tropical Pink’

• Petal Count: 6-7 petals (occasional)
• Description: Plumeria ‘Tropical Pink’ is a hybrid that occasionally produces flowers with 6 or even 7 petals, a rare and exciting characteristic for this cultivar. While the typical bloom has 5 petals, ‘Tropical Pink’ is known for its variability, making it a fun and unpredictable addition to any plumeria collection.
• Flower Characteristics: The flowers feature soft pink petals with a creamy yellow center. When the plant produces multi-petal blooms, the flowers appear fuller and more rounded, with a striking depth and fragrance.
• Growing Tips: ‘Tropical Pink’ thrives in warm, tropical climates and requires regular watering during the growing season. It’s a good idea to prune the plant to maintain shape and encourage consistent blooming.

Plumeria ‘Singapore’

• Petal Count: 6 petals (occasional)
• Description: Known for its beautiful white blooms with a yellow center, Plumeria ‘Singapore’ is one of the more well-known cultivars that can occasionally produce 6-petal flowers. The extra petals give the blooms a larger, more voluminous look, enhancing their already striking appearance.
• Flower Characteristics: The white petals are broad and firm, with a bright yellow center. The multi-petal version of the flower has a more open, fuller appearance, which can make the plant look even more impressive when in bloom.
• Growing Tips: Plumeria ‘Singapore’ is a relatively hardy cultivar that enjoys plenty of sunlight and moderate watering. It does well in both garden beds and containers, though it benefits from occasional feeding to encourage better blooms.

Plumeria ‘Kauai Moon’

• Petal Count: 6 petals (occasional)
• Description: Plumeria ‘Kauai Moon’ is known for its vibrant multi-colored blooms that feature a mix of orange, pink, and yellow. This cultivar occasionally produces flowers with 6 petals, giving the blooms an added depth and fullness that makes them stand out.
• Flower Characteristics: The flower colors range from deep orange at the center to yellow at the edges, with soft pinks in between. When 6 petals appear, the flower’s appearance is much more voluminous, enhancing the contrast of the vibrant hues.
• Growing Tips: ‘Kauai Moon’ thrives in full sun and should be watered regularly during the growing season. It is ideal for planting in sunny areas where its full potential can be reached.

The Genetic Basis of Multi-Petal Plumeria Flowers

The occurrence of multi-petal flowers in plumeria is often linked to genetics. While most plumeria flowers typically have five petals, a mutation in the genes controlling floral development can sometimes result in the production of extra petals. This phenomenon is most commonly seen in hybrid varieties, where breeders may intentionally select for multi-petal traits.

Genetic Mutations and Hybridization

In many cases, multi-petal plumerias are the result of hybridization between different species or cultivars. The genetic traits that contribute to the number of petals can be passed down from one parent to the other, sometimes resulting in an extra petal or two. However, because the trait is not always predictable, these flowers are often a rare and delightful surprise.

Additionally, environmental factors such as stress, temperature fluctuations, or nutrient availability can also influence the development of extra petals. In some cases, plumerias grown under stress or in ideal conditions may produce multi-petal flowers, adding an unpredictable element to their blooming cycle.

Conclusion: The Appeal of Multi-Petal Plumerias

Multi-petal plumerias are a fascinating aspect of plumeria cultivation, offering a rare and exciting twist on the usual five-petal blooms. Whether it’s a cultivar like Plumeria ‘Siam Red’ with 6 petals or the occasional 7-petal flower in varieties like Plumeria ‘Tropical Pink,’ these blooms add an extra layer of beauty and intrigue to any plumeria collection.

For plumeria enthusiasts and collectors, the appearance of multi-petal flowers is a rewarding experience, both as a rare event and as a marker of the cultivar’s unique traits. If you’re looking to expand your plumeria garden with some multi-petal varieties, be sure to seek out cultivars like ‘Siam Red’ and ‘Kauai Moon,’ where these stunning flowers occasionally appear.