Milky Way Tree

Binomial name

Stemmadenia galeottiana

Common names

Wild Frangipani, Galeotti’s Stemmadenia

Description

Stemmadenia galeottiana, also known as Wild Frangipani or Galeotti’s Stemmadenia, is a striking tropical shrub native to Central America. It’s recognized for its glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of fragrant, star-shaped white flowers that bloom throughout the year, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance reminiscent of frangipani, making it a popular addition to gardens seeking a sweet-smelling, exotic touch. This plant typically grows as a small tree or large shrub, making it suitable for hedges, borders, or accent planting in tropical and subtropical landscapes.

Light requirements

Wild Frangipani thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to flower profusely. While it can tolerate some shade, it performs best in bright, sunny spots where it can receive plenty of light for healthy growth and abundant blooming.

Soil preferences, including pH and drainage

Stemmadenia galeottiana prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0). It can tolerate a variety of soil types, but it does best in rich, loamy soil. Proper drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. It’s also adaptable to soils with lower fertility but will thrive with added organic matter.

Water needs

Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil moderately moist, but avoid soggy conditions. Wild Frangipani is somewhat drought-tolerant once established, but it will bloom more abundantly with consistent moisture. Be sure to reduce watering during the winter months when the plant’s growth slows down. Always ensure the soil dries slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.