Frangipani
The tree with the beautiful white flowers is tied to many myths and rituals in the tropical regions.
The beautiful white flowers of the frangipani are pollinated by moths. The moth is attracted by the color of the flowers and seductive scent, but they are cheated because the flowers of frangipani have no nectar. They only have their scent and looks to lure with.
Frangipani is native to South and Central America but is grown as an ornamental plant throughout the tropics.
There are many myths and superstitions attached to the tree:
In South and Southeast Asia, the tree is believed to house spirits and demons, while woman in Polynesia use the flowers to signal their status.
A flower worn over the right ear indicates that a woman is looking for a man, while a flower over the left ear shows that she is spoken for.
Facts:
- Greenhouse location: Tropical house
- Danish name: Plumeria
- Latin name: Plumeria
- Family: Dogbane family / Apocynaceae
- Natural habitat: South and Central America
Learn more about other plants here.