Dombeya

Description

Dombeya is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the family Malvaceae, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Madagascar, and Asia. The genus includes about 200 species of evergreen or deciduous trees, shrubs, and climbers. The plants are known for their showy flowers, which are large and often pink, white, or yellow in color. The leaves are usually simple, alternate, and serrated, with a velvety texture. Some species have edible fruits, such as the Dombeya cacuminum, which produces a sweet and juicy orange fruit.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The appearance of Dombeya varies depending on the species. The plants can grow up to 30 meters tall, but most species are shrubs or small trees. The leaves are usually dark green and have a velvety texture. The flowers are large and showy, with a diameter of up to 15 cm. They are often pink, white, or yellow and have a bell-shaped corolla. The flowers usually bloom in groups, making them more striking. The fruit of Dombeya is a capsule or a nutlet, containing several seeds.

Care Guide

Dombeya is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your Dombeya healthy:

• Water: Water your Dombeya regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your Dombeya with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Dombeya prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral.
• Sunlight: Dombeya thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce the number of flowers.
• Hardiness Zones: Dombeya is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but some species can tolerate colder temperatures.

Common Pests & Diseases

Dombeya is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:

• Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause yellowing and curling. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
• Spider mites: These tiny arachnids can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Fungal diseases: Dombeya can be prone to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. Use a fungicide to control these diseases.

Habitat

Dombeya is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Madagascar, and Asia. The plants grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and wetlands. Some species are adapted to dry or rocky soils, while others prefer moist or swampy soils. Dombeya can tolerate drought and moderate salinity, making it a versatile plant.

Question and Answer

Q: Can I grow Dombeya indoors?
A: Dombeya prefers full sun and is not suitable for indoor growing. However, you can grow it in a greenhouse or a conservatory if you provide enough light and space.

Q: Does Dombeya attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Dombeya flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which help to pollinate the plant.

Q: How often should I prune my Dombeya?
A: Prune your Dombeya in late winter or early spring to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You can also prune to shape the plant or control its size. Avoid pruning during the growing season, as it may reduce the number of flowers.

Q: Is Dombeya toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Dombeya is toxic to pets. However, it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants that are not meant for consumption.

Related Plants

• Abutilon
• Hibiscus
• Sida
• Thespesia
• Waltheria

References

• “Dombeya.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a783>
• “Dombeya.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 23 August 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13206/dombeya/details>
• “Dombeya.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 23 August 2021. <http://pza.sanbi.org/dombeya>