Dais cotinifolia aka Pom Pom Tree

Dais cotinifolia is a shrub or small tree. It belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. One common name is African button flower. Kew gives its native range as southwestern Tanzania to South Africa. It grows in places with a marked dry season. Wild plants grow by streams and at the edges of evergreen forests. They also grow in grassland and on rocky mountain slopes. It suits subtropical areas and high ground in the tropics.

The plant has many branches and a round crown. It sheds its leaves for a short time. Sources give heights of about 16–26 feet [5–8 metres]. The source's summary lists 16 feet [5 metres]. Its full account gives a usual top height of 26 feet [8 metres]. Rare trees reach about 49 feet [15 metres]. The accounts give no crown width or detailed leaf description. The bark has tough fibres that people use to make cordage, such as rope.

People grow this tree for flowers in parks and gardens. It grows fast and can bloom in its second year. In South Africa, trees can reach full height within four to five years. Flowers grow on wood formed in the year before. Insects pollinate the flowers. The species is not self-fertile. The sources give no bloom months or fruit details. Plants often grow new seedlings around them in gardens. Growers can also use seed or half-ripe cuttings to raise plants.

Give this tree sun and soil that drains well. Once it takes root, it can cope with spells of drought. Trees under three years old need some shelter from frost. Older trees can bear more frost. The evidence gives no temperature limit or hardiness zone. Nor does it name specific pests or diseases. To raise seeds, the source suggests a shaded nursery bed or seed tray. Move each seedling to its own pot when large enough to handle.

People gather wild tree bark for several uses. They weave its fibres and use them as ties. They also braid them into rope. The bark yields a yellow dye, too. In traditional medicine, people use a leaf decoction for stomach pain. A decoction is a liquid made by boiling plant parts. This records a use, not proof of safety or benefit. The source lists no known food uses or hazards. The lack of reported hazards does not prove safety for people or pets.