Apical dominance
Growth habit
Definition: The inhibition of lateral bud growth by the presence of the hormone auxin in a plant? s terminal bud.
How it applies to plumeria: Apical dominance can describe how a plumeria grows as a woody tree or shrub, including branching, stem behavior, dormancy, internodes, and overall habit. Growth traits help separate compact, upright, lanky, spreading, and vigorous cultivars.
What to look for: Observe the whole plant over time, not just one branch. Note branching pattern, tip growth, seasonal leaf drop, container behavior, bloom habit, and whether the plant stays compact or becomes large and open.
Identification note: This term is one clue. A plumeria should be compared using all available traits, photos, source history, and growing context rather than a single characteristic.