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Description
Dombeya Wallichii, also known as Pink Ball Tree or Tropical Hydrangea, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, and Bhutan. This species is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has large, lush green leaves that are ovate to heart-shaped and can reach up to 20 cm in length. The plant produces stunning inflorescences of pink or mauve-colored flowers that bloom in the late winter or early spring months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Dombeya |
Appearance
Dombeya Wallichii is a stunning plant that can add color and vibrancy to any garden. It has large, lush green leaves that are ovate to heart-shaped and can reach up to 20 cm in length. The plant produces stunning inflorescences of pink or mauve-colored flowers that bloom in the late winter or early spring months. These flowers can grow up to 8 cm in diameter and have a sweet fragrance that attracts bees and butterflies. The plant also produces small, woody fruits that contain seeds.
Care Guide
Dombeya Wallichii is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not overly wet. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every four weeks to encourage healthy growth and flowering.Soil: The plant prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced.Hardiness Zones: Dombeya Wallichii is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dombeya Wallichii is relatively disease and pest resistant. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, whiteflies, or scale insects. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with an insecticidal soap or oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Dombeya Wallichii is native to Southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It grows in a wide range of habitats, from lowland forests to mountainous regions. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dombeya Wallichii a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, Dombeya Wallichii can grow relatively quickly, especially in warm, humid conditions.Q: How often should I fertilize my Dombeya Wallichii plant?
A: Fertilize the plant every four weeks during the growing season.Q: Can Dombeya Wallichii tolerate shade?
A: Yes, Dombeya Wallichii can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced.Q: Is Dombeya Wallichii a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Dombeya Wallichii produces sweetly scented flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:
- Dombeya elegans
- Dombeya rotundifolia
- Dombeya x cayeuxii
- Dombeya x seminole
References
- “Dombeya Wallichii (Pink Ball Tree).” Gardening Know How, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/pink-ball-tree/dombeya-pink-ball-tree.htm.
- “Dombeya Wallichii.” Plant Care Today, https://plantcaretoday.com/dombeya-wallichii.html.
- “Dombeya Wallichii.” World Agroforestry Centre, https://database.prota.org/dbtw-wpd/exec/dbtwpub.dll?AC=QBE_QUERY&BU=http%3A%2F%2Fdatabase.prota.org%2Fsearch.htm&TN=PROTAB~1&QB0=AND&QF0=Species+Code&QI0=Dombeya+wallichii&RF=Webdisplay.
