Overview

Dombeya natalensis is a plant with a shrub or small tree, bushy habit in the genus Dombeya, part of the Malvaceae family, with deciduous, large, lobed leaves foliage. Dombeya natalensis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include specimen plant, conservatories and sheltered gardens.

About

Dombeya natalensis is a bushy shrub or small tree belonging to the Malvaceae family. It features large, lobed deciduous leaves and thrives best in full sun with a south-facing, sheltered aspect. This cultivar prefers fertile, moist but well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suitable for use as a specimen plant in conservatories or sheltered gardens. Interest is primarily in the spring and summer seasons. Propagation is typically by softwood cuttings taken in spring or early summer.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dombeya

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

Aspect

South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Dombeya natalensis size, habit and characteristics

Habit

Shrub or small tree, bushy

Foliage

Deciduous, large, lobed leaves

Suggested uses

Specimen plant, conservatories, sheltered gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Dombeya natalensis

Propagation

Softwood cuttings in spring or early summer

Pest resistance

Susceptible to aphids, scale insects

Disease resistance

Prone to fungal diseases like sooty mold

Frequently asked questions