Dombeya wallichii aka Pink Ball Tree

Dombeya wallichii, or pinkball, belongs to the mallow family, Malvaceae. It comes from eastern Madagascar, where it grows in wet tropical climates. This evergreen plant forms a large shrub or small tree. Gardeners most often grow it as a shrub. Its dense, rounded crown has a coarse texture.

Plants reach 20–30 feet (6.1–9.1 metres) tall in cultivation. Their spread reaches 20–25 feet (6.1–7.6 metres). The simple, heart-shaped leaves grow in an alternate pattern. They have toothed or rounded-toothed edges and a light green colour. Leaves measure about 2–8 inches long and show no autumn colour change. New twigs are green. Tree forms tend to have one trunk. The branches do not droop, though they can break. UF/IFAS also records thorns on the trunk or branches. Pruning helps build a sound branch structure.

Pink flowers crowd into round clusters that hang below branches. Each cluster spans about 4–6 inches. Chicago Botanic Garden lists flowering from November through April. The blooms draw butterflies and provide the plant's main display. Fallen flower heads stay pink for several days. Their dry remains need clearing to keep the ground neat. The fruit adds little display and does not draw wildlife. Leaves and fruit do not create a major litter problem.

Grow pinkball in full sun or partial shade. It accepts clay, sand, and loam, with good drainage. It also tolerates brief wet spells and acidic to slightly alkaline soil. Chicago Botanic Garden lists moist soil as its preference. Water new plants until they establish. After that, they need little extra water except in very dry places. UF/IFAS rates drought tolerance as moderate. Protect plants from frost and avoid salt spray. Hardiness guidance differs: UF/IFAS gives USDA zones 9b–11. Chicago Botanic Garden lists zones 10–12.

Use pinkball as a specimen, shade plant, or patio tree. It also suits screens, hedges, and garden borders. Its roots rarely cause trouble, according to UF/IFAS. Once established, it needs little routine care beyond pruning and flower cleanup. Softwood cuttings root with ease. Aphids, soft scale, nematodes, and sooty mold may cause minor trouble. UF/IFAS reports no major disease concerns.