Fauna
Plant

Hammerleaf Frangipani

Plumeria pudica

Also known as Bridal Bouquet, Fiddle Leaf Plumeria, Cobra Leaf Frangipani, White Frangipani

Hammerleaf frangipani stands apart from its deciduous relatives by retaining its dense canopy of fiddle-shaped leaves throughout most of the year. Clusters of unscented, pristine white blossoms with bright yellow centers bloom almost continuously in warm climates. When snapped, the stems exude a copious white latex typical of the dogbane family, deterring many generalist herbivores.

EvergreenFloweringTropical
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAutotrophic (Photosynthetic)
Predators
  • Frangipani Caterpillar (Pseudosphinx tetrio)
  • Spider Mites
  • Longhorn Stem Borers
ThreatsHabitat clearing, severe frost, and fungal rust
HabitatsTropical dry forests, scrublands, and coastal thickets
Life span20–50 years
Classification
  1. OrderGentianales
  2. FamilyApocynaceae
  3. GenusPlumeria
  4. SpeciesPlumeria pudica
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Milky latex irritates skin and eyes and is toxic if ingested; avoid sap contact when pruning.
Why it is dangerous
Exudes milky sap containing poisonous alkaloids and cardiac-active glycosides that cause blistering, rashes, and severe stomach pain if swallowed.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognizable by glossy leaves flared at the tip like a spoon or cobra hood, paired with pristine white five-petaled flowers.
What to do
Do not touch fresh plant cuts, wash hands immediately if sap contacts skin, and keep pets from chewing foliage.
Responsible observation
  • Safe Pruning: Wear gloves and eye protection to prevent milky latex from splashing onto skin.
  • Sun Exposure: Position in full sunlight to stimulate continuous blooming and prevent leggy growth.
  • Watering Needs: Allow the surrounding soil to dry completely between waterings to avoid root rot.
Related species
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