Pink Ball Tree
dombeya reclinata
Also known as: ["Pink Ball Tree","Pink Ballflower"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Madagascar, known for its clusters of pink flowers that resemble balls.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Dombeya |
| Botanical Name: | Dombeya reclinata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- 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 sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- 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 partial shade, especially in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on season—provide more light in winter if indoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. For indoor plants, place near east- or west-facing windows. Outdoor plants benefit from dappled shade during peak afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, humid conditions. Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable 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 medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is in active growth.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant without removing excessive foliage.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim rootbound roots; replace with fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root boundness; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Ensure excess water drains freely to prevent root rot. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter when growth slows. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or orchid bark to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorched leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stagnant growth, leaf drop, and potential root damage if exposed to prolonged cold or frost.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; apply a thick layer of mulch to insulate roots; protect with frost cloth if outdoors.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mist foliage to boost humidity.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce or stop in fall and winter. Dilute to half-strength to avoid root burn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDombeya reclinata 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:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicDombeya reclinata 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:
None
Humans
Non-toxicDombeya reclinata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant has no reported adverse effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Dombeya reclinata grow?
A: It typically reaches 6–10 meters in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for tropical climates?
A: Yes, it is well-suited to tropical and subtropical regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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