Plumeria obtusa
Plumeria obtusa, the Singapore graveyard flower,[3] is a species of the genus Plumeria (Apocynaceae). It is native to the Neotropics, but widely cultivated for its ornamental and fragrant flowers around the world, where suitably warm climate exists. TaxonomyPlumeria obtusa was described as a new species in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus.[4] Its specific epithet "obtusa" means "blunt", in reference to its blunt-tipped leaves.[5] DescriptionPlumeria obtusa is a small tree, growing 3.0–4.6 m (10–15 ft) tall. Infrequently, individuals can grow to be 7.6 m (25 ft). Its flowers are white with yellow throats and each has five petals. The fragrant flowers bloom in clusters. Leaves are dark green, glossy, and up to 20 cm (8 in) long. They are obovate, or teardrop-shaped.[5] DistributionPlumeria obtusa is native to the West Indies (including the Bahamas and the Greater Antilles), southern Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Florida in the United States.[6][7] Cultivation is common in warmer parts of the world, including Southeast Asia and coastal parts of the Arabian Peninsula. It is reportedly naturalized in China and India.[8][9] Common namesUsesThis plant is commonly used as an ornamental, grown for its flowers. In Cambodia the flowers are used to make necklaces and in offerings to the deities.[8] In traditional medicine used in that country, a decoction of the bark is given in varying doses as a purgative or as a remedy against oedema. References
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