PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Plumeria alba
White Frangipani
L.
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A small, deciduous or semi-evergreen tropical tree or large shrub characterized by thick, succulent branches containing a copious, milky white latex. It features long, narrow, lanceolate leaves with conspicuously revolute margins, and produces highly fragrant, terminal clusters of five-petaled white flowers with a vibrant yellow center.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Gentianales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Apocynaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Plumeria
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.L.
Record Completeness
85%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Unknown
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Herbivore
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Native to the West Indies and parts of the Caribbean, but extensively introduced and naturalized across tropical regions worldwide. It thrives in dry, coastal scrub forest ecosystems, limestone hillsides, and rocky, well-drained soils under full sun, demonstrating excellent resistance to salt spray and drought conditions.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
Grows firmly anchored within dry littoral scrub and rocky terrains. It is completely sedentary, shedding its large leaves during prolonged seasonal droughts to minimize respiratory water loss and channel internal moisture to the core woody branches.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
300.0 - 700.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Equipped with thick, semi-succulent, corky branches that store water internally, allowing the plant to sustain metabolic activity and survive prolonged dry seasons in coastal environments.
Produces a sticky, toxic milky latex containing alkaloids and iridoid glycosides that serves as a highly effective chemical defense mechanism against generalist herbivores and boring insects.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Heavy coastal real estate development and tourism infrastructure expansion within Caribbean littoral zones, causing direct habitat fragmentation and clearing of native wild populations.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The flowers release an incredibly intense fragrance during the evening and night hours to mimic nectar-rich blooms, deceptively tricking sphingid moths into pollinating them as they find no actual nectar rewards.