Pink Ball Tree
dombeya wallichii
Also known as: ["Pink Ball Tree","Society Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Madagascar, known for its large clusters of pink flowers that resemble balls, blooming in late winter or early spring.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Dombeya |
| Botanical Name: | Dombeya wallichii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with morning sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to retain moisture without waterlogging.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering in late spring or early summer, or as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial sun but avoid intense afternoon sun, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to brighter light to prevent scorching. For indoor placement, position near an east or west-facing window with a sheer curtain. Outdoor placement should be in dappled or filtered sunlight.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate the plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and reduce watering in dormant periods.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures. Protect from extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method. Softwood cuttings taken in spring or early summer root most effectively.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two leaf nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and stems are flexible but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and bright indirect light.
Medium
A mix of peat moss and perlite or coarse sand for good drainage and aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to encourage faster and more reliable root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks. The plant may take an additional 3–6 months to establish fully.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, peat moss, perlite, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent infection; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction. Remove crossing or inward-growing branches to improve structure.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown branches. Pruning also improves air circulation and flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker branches), sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before the active growing season begins, to minimize stress on the plant.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger in diameter (about 2–3 inches wider) than the current pot.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil mix, and water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Repotting refreshes the soil and provides space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; position plant correctly; water well; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost or peat moss to enhance moisture retention and fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning leaf edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf discoloration in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or damage flower buds. Prolonged cold may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move the plant indoors or to a sheltered location during cold spells. Apply a layer of mulch to insulate roots and avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flower drop. High temperatures may stress the plant and reduce vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity with misting, and ensure consistent watering to prevent dehydration.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest the seeds or berries of Dombeya wallichii. The toxicity is generally low, but cats can be more sensitive to certain plant compounds, leading to symptoms of mild distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Dombeya wallichii seeds and berries can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds are not highly potent but can cause discomfort, particularly in smaller breeds or dogs with sensitive stomachs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDombeya wallichii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort in sensitive individuals. The physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Dombeya wallichii grow?
A: It typically reaches 15–20 feet in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for container planting?
A: No, it is best grown in the ground due to its size.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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