Do many animals or insects live on or rely on the Fragapani Plant? Does it have protective features?
Answers:
Plumeria (frangapani is the Hawaiin name) are found naturally (growing wild) all over the world in the tropical and semi-tropical zones. To quote the Handbook on Plumeria Culture by Richard & Mary Helen Eggenberger, "Plumerias are remarkably resistant to insects and diseases. In India we experienced no problems whatsoever and in 12 years, we never had to spray!."
I don't think there are any animals or insects that "rely" on them. In Hawaii, they've had problems with Longhorn beetle grubs boring into the stems. Here in the states, the only pest I've had trouble with is spider mites, and water and a breezier location cured that (I have over 50 of them). Only a sick or week tree might attract thrips, aphids, etc. Although this is just a quess, I would say that it's sap probably is a protective feature. Any time it is injured, it profusely bleeds a sticky sap.
They are amazingly easy to grow - frost and freezing being their worst enemy. I highly encourage you to try them if you can give them full sun and protect it from freezing. If you'd like to grow one, let me know and I can hook you u. If you want to know more about them, go here -- computation for for topsoil coverage?