Pink Ball Tree
dombeya ciliata
Also known as: ["Pink Ball Tree","Pink Ballflower"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Madagascar, known for its clusters of pink, ball-shaped flowers that bloom 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 ciliata |
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 coarse sand; can include some organic matter like compost.
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 if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvena
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate morning sun but requires shade from harsh afternoon rays, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, position near an east or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide dappled shade in peak summer; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain freely; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but thrives in moderate warmth with protection from extreme cold or heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity; shield from intense heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with a node; can also propagate via layering or division for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with indirect light; use a propagation dome or plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use water propagation for initial rooting.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder or gel for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or dome.
Quick Tips
Use stems that are not too woody; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
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, loppers (for thicker stems), disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly; avoid over-pruning.
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
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting foliage; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow leaves to dry.
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.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop during extreme temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf discoloration, and may lead to frost damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect with frost cloth; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors; water less during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flower drop, especially if combined with dry soil.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season; flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDombeya ciliata is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDombeya ciliata is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDombeya ciliata is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Dombeya ciliata grow?
A: It typically grows to 6–10 meters in height.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and moderate watering.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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