Family: Malvaceae
Tropical hydrangea is a tropical shrub growing as tall as it is wide, up to 20 feet. It should be utility friendy. Trim to maintain symmetrical shape and hardy, bushy growth. Large green lobed leaves adorn the shrub. Striking when in bloom, large pink ball-shaped pink flowers are 5 to 6 inches in diameter and hang pendant. They resemble a hydrangea hanging upside down, hence the common name. Because of the pendulant flowers and large foliage, blooms get lost among the light green leaves. Careful pruning will remedy the hidden flowers. Deadheading old flowers will promote more blooming in the future. Bees often forage on this plant. Tropical hydrangea are frequently cultivated, best as a specimen. In general, a low-maintenance tree.
Plant Uses:
- Container plant
- Fragrant
- Ornamental
- Specimen
Plant Dangers:
- No dangers
High Risk Traits:
- Able to grow in tropical climates
- Other Dombeya species may be weedy
- Tolerates many soil types
- Seeds (if produce) may be dispersed by wind and intentionally by people
- Tolerates frequent pruning
Low Risk Traits:
- No reports of invasiveness or naturalization
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Requires full sun
- Ornamental
- Artificial hybrid that may not produce fruit and seeds
- Lack of seed production reduces or eliminates potential for inadvertent dispersal
