Tree Hibiscus
dombeya pilosa
Also known as: ["Forest Wild-Hibiscus","Pilose Wild-Hibiscus"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to Madagascar, known for its showy, hibiscus-like flowers and lobed leaves.
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 pilosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- 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; can include some organic matter for fertility.
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.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
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 well.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged wood; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
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.
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 for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or chlorosis in extreme cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, 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 periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDombeya pilosa is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant has not been associated with any harmful effects when ingested or touched by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicDombeya pilosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects resulting from contact or ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicDombeya pilosa is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant has not been documented to cause any adverse physiological effects upon contact or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Dombeya pilosa be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Dombeya pilosa require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is Dombeya pilosa suitable for container gardening?
A: It can be grown in large containers but may require frequent repotting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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