Plumeria seeds have a distinctive appearance that makes them relatively easy to identify.

Physical Characteristics

1. Shape and Size

   • Main Body: The main body of the seed, where the embryo is housed, is elongated and somewhat cylindrical. It is generally about 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) in length.
   • Winged Tip: One end of the seed extends into a prominent, papery wing. This wing is a unique feature of plumeria seeds, giving them a somewhat “tadpole” like appearance.

2. Color

   • Main Body: The color of the seed’s main body can vary but is generally dark brown or black, indicating maturity. Younger seeds might be lighter in color.
   • Winged Tip: The winged tip is usually a lighter color, often tan or brown, and is papery and thin.

3. Texture

   • Main Body: The body of the seed is firm and slightly glossy. It should feel hard and not yield easily to pressure, indicating that it is healthy and viable.
   • Winged Tip: The winged tip is dry and papery, offering a contrast to the smoother and harder main body of the seed.

Functional Characteristics

1. Dispersal

   • The winged tip aids in the dispersal of the seeds. It allows the seeds to be carried away by the wind, helping in natural propagation over a wider area.

2. Germination

   • The elongated body houses the embryo, which will germinate under the right conditions, producing a radicle (young root) that grows downwards into the soil and a shoot that grows upwards towards the light.

Visual Representation

To give you a visual representation, imagine a small, elongated object resembling a tiny club or a drumstick, with a pronounced wing at one end and a rounded base at the other. This unique shape is quite characteristic and distinguishes plumeria seeds from many other types of seeds.

Conclusion

Understanding the physical characteristics of plumeria seeds is essential for successful cultivation. It helps select healthy, viable seeds for planting and can guide enthusiasts looking to start their plumeria journey. The unique appearance of plumeria seeds, with their winged tips and elongated bodies, not only aids in their identification but also plays a role in their dispersal and propagation in the wild.