The Ultimate Plumeria Care Guide offers vital insights into nurturing Plumeria plants according to different regional climates, seasonal changes and microclimates.
Makaha Sunn aka Sunkist, Inferno Plumeria
Makaha Sunn, also known as Sunkist and Inferno, is a remarkable plumeria variety that dazzles with its brilliant colors and enticing fragrance. This cultivar features stunning 3″ flowers in a vibrant yellow-orange rainbow hue. The petals are substantial and exhibit a remarkable combination of red and gold tones, creating a captivating display of color. Makaha Sunn is truly an eye-stopper with its bright and captivating hues.
One of the standout features of Makaha Sunn is its outstanding jasmine fragrance. The blooms emit a strong and delightful jasmine scent, adding a sensory experience to the visual beauty of the flowers. The enchanting fragrance enhances the overall allure of this variety and makes it even more enticing to plumeria enthusiasts.
The discovery of Makaha Sunn is credited to Bud Guillot, who found the tree during one of his trips to Oahu. In honor of the legendary female Hawaiian surfer, Rell Sunn, Bud Guillot named this variety Makaha Sunn. The name carries a sense of significance and pays tribute to a renowned figure in Hawaiian culture.
With a flower size of 4″, Makaha Sunn boasts substantial and moderately overlapped oval petals. The inner edges of the petals are upturned and exhibit a dark red hue, blending into orange and yellow tones towards the dark orange center. The reverse side of the petals features dark red bands, adding an extra touch of visual interest. The petals are symmetrical and compact, giving the blooms a pleasing and harmonious appearance.
While listed as compact, Makaha Sunn tends to grow leggy if overwatered and may exhibit a more elongated growth habit. Its growth rate starts off very fast but then slows down over time. This variety thrives in a hot and humid environment, requiring consistent heat and humidity to flourish. The branching of Makaha Sunn is average, with easy-to-identify tapering patterns that alternate between thicker and thinner sections.
The elliptical dark green leaves of Makaha Sunn have acute tips and red edges, adding to the overall attractiveness of the tree. However, rooting this variety can be challenging, and grafting is recommended for successful propagation. Makaha Sunn is prone to black tip fungus (BT) and may require specific care to prevent and manage this condition.
While Makaha Sunn is a magnificent plumeria variety, it can be challenging to grow in mainland regions with cooler and drier climates. It prefers consistent year-round heat and may suffer from the cooler nights. It is especially sensitive to cold temperatures and requires protection in frost-prone areas.
In summary, Makaha Sunn, also known as Sunkist and Inferno, is a captivating plumeria variety with its orange-red coloration, 3″ blooms, average growth, fruity fragrance, and intriguing history. It is a visually striking and fragrant addition to any garden, but it requires specific conditions and care to thrive successfully.
