Bud union
Growth habit
Definition: The suture line where a bud or scion was grafted to a stock. Sometimes called a graft union.
How it applies to plumeria: Bud union 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.
- Glossary: CandelabrumCandelabrum: A strong, dominant rose cane with accelerated growth that originates from a bud union and explodes with many blooms. Plumeria context is explained on the term page.