Sheer Beauty aka Thai Dane Plumeria

Plumeria 'Sheer Beauty'

Plumeria 'Sheer Beauty,' also known as 'Thai Dane,' 'Golden Unicorn,' '4437,' and 'P6,' is a striking cultivar originating from Thailand. This remarkable plumeria is celebrated for its vibrant coloration, unique petal structure, and strong citrus fragrance. Known for its long bloom season and balanced growth habit, 'Sheer Beauty' is a captivating addition to any garden or collection.

Vibrant Yellow Blooms with Red Accents

The flowers of 'Sheer Beauty' measure 3 to 3 1/2 inches and often consist of six overlapping petals. They showcase a white base with a large lemon-yellow area and pink highlights along the petal margins. The backside of the petals is creamy yellow with distinct red bands. These thick, asymmetrical petals display a dynamic combination of colors that change depending on sunlight exposure, turning deeper and more vibrant in strong sun while appearing pale in lower light conditions.

Sweet Citrus Fragrance

'Sheer Beauty' is renowned for its strong, coco-lemon fragrance. This sweet citrus scent adds a delightful sensory experience, making the blooms as pleasing to smell as they are to see.

Balanced Growth Habit with Wide, Open Structure

This cultivar exhibits a balanced growth habit, typically splitting into three branches after blooming. While not a tall grower, 'Sheer Beauty' develops a wide, open structure with branches that splay out, creating a striking visual presence. Its light to medium green elliptical leaves with pointed tips further enhance its aesthetic appeal.

Long Bloom Season and Heat Sensitivity

'Sheer Beauty' is a reliable bloomer with a long flowering season. Its petals are changeable, with their colors and curling tips becoming more pronounced under strong sunlight. In partial sun or lower solar irradiation, the blooms may appear paler and less vibrant. This variety thrives in warm conditions but is not cold tolerant, requiring protection in cooler climates.

Historical Significance

Originating in Thailand, 'Sheer Beauty' has gained international recognition for its exceptional traits. However, it has been fraudulently resold as a seedling under various names, making its true identity and provenance an important detail for collectors.

In Summary

Plumeria 'Sheer Beauty' is a medium-growing, wide-branching tree with 3 to 3 1/2-inch yellow flowers accented by red bands and pink margins, a sweet citrus fragrance, and a reliable blooming habit. Its dynamic color changes, strong fragrance, and balanced growth make it a standout choice for any plumeria enthusiast.

Color: Yellow with Red Band and Pink Margins
Flower Size: 3" - 3 1/2"
Blooming: Good Bloomer
Growth Rate: Average
Scent: Sweet Citrus Floral
AKAs: Sheer Beauty, Thai Dane, 4437, Golden Unicorn, P6
Special Notes: Not cold tolerant; requires strong sunlight for vibrant colors and petal curl; splits into three branches after blooming; wide, open growth habit. Originates from Thailand.