Plumeria

Description:

Melia, commonly known as the plumeria, are part of the Apocynaceae family. They can be classified as large shrubs or small trees. Plumeria have thick, wooden stems and can grow up to 30 feet. The boat shaped leaves are glossy green that ranges from 8-12 inches in length and 2-4 inches in width. The leaves can excrete a poisonous, milky sap. Flowers have a unique scent and are abundant from spring to fall. Colors of the flowers vary but can be pink, red, white, and yellow. They can even be multicolored.

Habitat:

In Hawaiʻi, plumerias can be found in all islands except for Niʻihau. This plumeria was found in Pueonani Street, Kapolei.

Notes:

The plumeria is neither Polynesian introduced, endemic, or indigenous to Hawaiʻi. It is native to the Caribbean. However, the flowers are commonly used to make Hawaiian leis.