How to Care for Plumeria Indoors

Overview

Plumeria, also known as frangipani, is a perennial shrub valued for its relative ease of care, its large, ornamental flowers and its pleasant fragrance. Flowers bloom during late spring and summer in shades of white and pink, and are commonly used in flower necklaces, or leis, in Hawaii and Polynesia. Native to Central and South America, plumeria thrives outdoors in zones 9 through 11. Because of the plant's need for warm temperatures, however, gardeners commonly grow plumeria indoors as a houseplant throughout the United States.

Step 1

Keep plumeria in a location that receives at least 6 hours of bright sunlight each day, such as a north- or west-facing window. Grow it in a medium made of one part peat moss, one part perlite, one part compost and one part pumice to provide adequate drainage and fertility.

Step 2

Maintain a constant temperature of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night for optimal growth. For the best results, keep a thermometer near the plant to ensure the average temperature does not leave this range.

Step 3

Water indoor plumeria plants once per week from April through September, allowing the soil to dry slightly between applications. Do not water plumeria from October to March when the plant is dormant and requires much less moisture.

Step 4

Feed using a high-phosphorous 5-10-5 NPK fertilizer once per month throughout the spring, summer and fall months. Water both before and after applying to release the nutrients into the soil and reduce the risk of root burn. Apply according to the manufacturer's instructions for proper dosage.

Step 5

Use a spray bottle to mist plumeria once each day during winter to increase the relative humidity near the plant. Fill the spray bottle with lukewarm water to avoid shocking the plant. Spray during the early morning so excess moisture can evaporate before temperatures drop.

Step 6

Prune plumeria during late winter or early spring, just before active growth resumes. Use pruning shears to cut branches back to about half their length to promote a compact growth habit. Remove any damaged or bare branches to improve the health and appearance of the plant.

Step 7

Re-pot plumeria once every 3 to 4 years to provide additional room for growth and a fresh growing medium. Increase the size of the container by about 3 to 5 inches to accommodate the growing root system.