Dombeya burgessiae
Dombeya burgessiae
Pink Dombeya
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Description
Dombeya burgessiae is a cheerful, fast-growing African shrub that smothers itself in rosy-pink clusters during the cooler months. Often called a tropical hydrangea relative, it forms a rounded, leafy canopy and brings welcome winter color for pollinators and gardeners alike. Easy to shape, sun-loving, and adaptable, it’s a rewarding focal point in mild climates or a statement container plant where winters are cooler.
Common Names
Pink DombeyaPink Wild PearDombeyaRoses of the Nile
Context
nativeRegion
Eastern and southern Africa (Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, South Africa).
usdaZones
9b-11
companionPlants
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Plumbago auriculata, Tibouchina urvilleana, Bougainvillea spp., Salvia hybrids, Plectranthus spp., Grevillea spp., Agapanthus africanus
culturalUses
Valued as an ornamental for winter color and pollinator support; in some regions, fibrous bark used traditionally for cordage.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun to bright partial shade; 4–6+ hours of direct sun for best flowering.
WateringRegular to moderate; deep water weekly in heat. More drought tolerant once established, but avoid waterlogging.
SoilWell-drained loam or sandy soil enriched with organic matter; slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.2).
FertilizerApply a balanced slow‑release fertilizer in spring; optional light, potassium‑leaning feed midsummer. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
HumidityAverage to high humidity; shelter from hot, desiccating winds in arid climates.
TemperatureThrives at 65–85°F (18–29°C). Protect from frost below 30°F (−1°C). Hardy outdoors in USDA 9b–11.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitMulti-stemmed shrub or small tree with a rounded, dense crown.
Mature Size8–15 ft tall and 6–12 ft wide (2.5–4.5 m × 1.8–3.6 m).
Growth RateFast.
BloomingLarge, pendent clusters of rose‑pink, lightly fragrant flowers from late fall through early spring.
DormancyEvergreen to semi‑deciduous; brief rest after flowering, with more leaf drop in cool or dry seasons.
Propagation
MethodsSemi-hardwood cuttings, Softwood cuttings, Seed, Air layering
DifficultyEasy to moderate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer for cuttings; spring for sowing seed.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPrune lightly after flowering to shape and control size; remove spent clusters and dead wood. Can be trained to a single trunk.
RepottingIf container-grown, repot every 2–3 years in spring into a well‑draining mix.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for aphids, whiteflies, scale, and spider mites (may cause sooty mold). Prevent root rot with sharp drainage; occasional leaf spot possible.
ToxicityNo confirmed toxicity reports; treat as ornamental and avoid ingestion by pets or people.
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