Dombeya  - “Tropical Hydrangea”



Light: Dombeya are a tropical tree with large (very large) floppy green leaves. They require several hours of direct sunlight - the more, the better


Water: Focus on watering fully and less often. Leaves will droop when the soil has dried enough to require another thorough watering. These trees grow quickly and to maintain watering, routine replanting will be necessary.


Environment: Dombeya are beautiful, tropical plants that need warm, humid conditions and some direct sunlight to thrive. Avoid cold drafts, AC units, and active radiators that reduce humidity levels. To encourage flowering, give weekly fertilizer feedings March–October. Never fertilize when the plant is dry to avoid damaging the roots.


Toxicity: This is an uncommon houseplant, so due to a lack of information should be considered potentially toxic to pets..


Of Note:

  • Pruning during the summer is great for the plant, encouraging new branch development as it grows..
  • If it's coaxed to flower indoors, this typically happens in the winter months, so avoid pruning after late spring / early summer.

*When planting in a pot without a drainage hole, avoid over watering by estimating 25% of the container’s overall volume, with appropriate drainage materials incorporated when planting.