Hibiscus Tree
dombeya ficulnea
Also known as: ["False Hibiscus","Tree Hibiscus"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Madagascar, known for its large, lobed leaves and showy, hibiscus-like flowers.
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 ficulnea |
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: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand; can use a cactus or succulent mix amended with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade, especially in hot climates; for indoor plants, position near an east or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer afternoons; avoid direct afternoon sun in hot regions.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn't compact easily; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid placing near cold drafts or heat sources; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer to moist soil for better absorption.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use a cactus mix with added perlite.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap or dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterilized tools to prevent infection; maintain consistent moisture in the medium; provide bottom heat if possible to speed rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; cut just above a leaf node or bud to encourage new growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown branches; best done after flowering to avoid reducing blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or crossing branches; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or damage to tender tissues; prolonged cold can lead to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold conditions to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or bud drop; may also increase water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); discontinue in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDombeya ficulnea is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicDombeya ficulnea is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicDombeya ficulnea is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant has no reported adverse effects on human health.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Dombeya ficulnea 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 gardening?
A: No, it is best grown outdoors 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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