Embryo dormancy
Growth habit
Definition: Common in seed of woody perennial plants. A physiological condition in the embryo that prevents it from growing.
How it applies to plumeria: Embryo dormancy 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.