How Big Do Plumerias Get? (Plumeria Tree Height & Spread by Variety)

Plumeria plants are known for their stunning flowers and tropical appeal, but their size can vary significantly depending on the variety. Some plumeria trees can reach towering heights of 30 feet or more, while others, particularly dwarf varieties, stay compact, growing to under 8 feet. Understanding the growth potential of different plumeria cultivars is essential for gardeners who want to plan their space accordingly.

In this article, we’ll detail the typical size and growth characteristics of large, medium, and dwarf plumeria varieties, providing examples and a size chart to help you choose the right plant for your garden. Whether you’re looking for a majestic tree or a compact bush, knowing the size and spread of plumeria plants will help you anticipate how much space your plant will need to thrive.

1. Large Plumeria Varieties: Tall Trees with Wide Canopies

The largest plumeria varieties, like Plumeria rubra, can grow into sprawling trees with impressive heights and broad canopies. These trees are ideal for larger landscapes or tropical gardens where space isn’t limited. Under optimal conditions, they can easily reach heights of 30 feet or more, with a canopy spread of 20–25 feet or even wider.

Growth Characteristics of Large Plumeria Varieties:

• Height: Typically 20–30 feet tall (and sometimes taller in tropical conditions).
• Canopy Spread: Wide canopy, ranging from 15–25 feet depending on care and space.
• Growth Habit: Large plumeria varieties are usually tree-like, with a single trunk and multiple branches that spread out, creating a sprawling appearance.

Example Cultivars of Large Plumeria Varieties:

• Plumeria rubra
  • Size: Can reach 30+ feet tall in tropical climates, with a wide canopy. These trees are ideal for creating a large focal point in your garden or yard.
  • Growth Habit: Typically grows with a single trunk and produces abundant flowers throughout the warm months.
  • Environmental Needs: Requires full sun and well-draining soil, and it thrives in tropical or subtropical regions.
• Plumeria obtusa (e.g., ‘Singapore White’)
  • Size: Typically grows 20–25 feet tall in ideal conditions.
  • Growth Habit: Plumeria obtusa grows more bushy than P. rubra, but still reaches a significant height. The leaves are thicker and more leathery, contributing to its strong, hardy structure.
  • Environmental Needs: Prefers full sun and tolerates a bit more shade than P. rubra, making it more versatile for different garden designs.

2. Medium-Sized Plumeria Varieties: Moderate Growth with Control

Medium-sized plumeria varieties are perfect for gardeners who want a balance between height and manageability. These plants typically range from 8 to 15 feet in height, making them well-suited for gardens where you don’t have as much space for large trees. They still produce beautiful, fragrant flowers but maintain a more compact growth habit.

Growth Characteristics of Medium-Sized Plumeria Varieties:

• Height: Typically 8–15 feet tall.
• Canopy Spread: Usually 6–10 feet wide.
• Growth Habit: These plumeria cultivars tend to have a more bushy or multi-stemmed structure, creating a fuller appearance without the large canopy of taller varieties.

Example Cultivars of Medium-Sized Plumeria Varieties:

• Plumeria ‘Catherine’
  • Size: Grows to 8–10 feet tall, making it a perfect choice for smaller gardens or those looking to create a more controlled plumeria plant.
  • Growth Habit: This cultivar is more compact and produces abundant pink blooms. Its bushy growth habit makes it ideal for ornamental uses.
  • Environmental Needs: Prefers full sun but can tolerate a bit of afternoon shade.
• Plumeria ‘Celadine’
  • Size: Typically grows to 10–12 feet tall, with a moderately wide spread.
  • Growth Habit: The plant tends to have a dense growth habit with medium-sized branches that support large flowers.
  • Environmental Needs: Needs full sun and well-draining soil for optimal growth.

3. Dwarf Plumeria Varieties: Compact Growth for Small Spaces

Dwarf plumeria varieties are ideal for container gardening, small spaces, or indoor growing. These plants typically grow to under 8 feet tall and maintain a compact growth habit that makes them suitable for patios, balconies, and other limited-space environments.

Growth Characteristics of Dwarf Plumeria Varieties:

• Height: Typically under 8 feet tall, with some varieties growing as small as 2–3 feet.
• Canopy Spread: Usually 3–6 feet wide.
• Growth Habit: Dwarf plumeria varieties tend to have multi-branched growth, creating a bushy appearance while remaining manageable in size.

Example Cultivars of Dwarf Plumeria Varieties:

• Plumeria ‘Dwarf Yellow’
  • Size: This variety stays around 2–3 feet tall, making it ideal for containers or small garden spaces.
  • Growth Habit: ‘Dwarf Yellow’ is compact and bushy, producing vibrant yellow flowers in a manageable form.
  • Environmental Needs: Prefers full sun and is well-suited for container gardening or small spaces.
• Plumeria ‘Little Nicky’
  • Size: Typically grows to 3–4 feet tall, making it perfect for patios or container gardening.
  • Growth Habit: Compact and bushy, ‘Little Nicky’ is ideal for low-maintenance gardening.
  • Environmental Needs: Prefers full sun and well-draining soil.

4. Size Chart: Dwarf, Medium, and Large Plumeria Varieties

Here’s a quick reference chart to help you determine the approximate size of various plumeria cultivars, based on their growth habits and the space they’ll need.

Conclusion: Planning for Plumeria Growth

Understanding how large your plumeria plants will get is essential for planning your garden space and care routine. Whether you’re growing a towering tree like Plumeria rubra or a compact dwarf like Plumeria ‘Dwarf Yellow’, knowing the growth potential of different varieties will help you choose the right plant for your space. Dwarf plumerias are ideal for smaller gardens or containers, while medium and large varieties are better suited for larger spaces or tropical gardens.

By considering the growth habits of your plumeria, you can provide the best care and ensure that your plant thrives in its environment, whether it’s growing as a majestic tree or a compact beauty in a pot.