Dombeya rotundifolia. Picture courtesy Merryl Joyce Leverington The Wild Pear is one of our most beautiful indigenous flowering trees, putting on a spectacular show in spring when masses of white flower clusters cover the entire tree. There is a also a pink form. The scented flowers resemble pear blossoms; hence its common name. This deciduous tree grows singly or in clumps and is one of the first to flower on the Highveld. The bare branches against a backdrop of dry veld, make it an unforgettable sight and easily distinguishable.

Dombeya rotundifolia Flowers. Picture courtesy www.lifeisagarden.co.zaThis tree usually has a single stem with many branches and a rounded crown but in very dry areas it often grows as a multi-stemmed tree or large shrub. The rounded, rough and hairy green leaves turn yellow in autumn and the rugged dark brown bark is corky with longitudinal grooves. The wood is heavy and very strong and was used in the making of wagons and as mine props. This species is an important food source and host to many insect species when food is scarce. It is browsed by Kudu and will attract birds and butterflies to your garden. The Wild Pear does not have an aggressive root system and makes an excellent single specimen tree for gardens small and large It is also a beautiful avenue tree.
The Wild Pear prefers hot summer regions that receive moderate rainfall. It can be grown in other regions but may not flower as well. It grows quickly, loves full sun and is hardy to all but severe frost. This tree is variable in height, growing between 4 to 12m tall, but in the garden it can be pruned into a small tree or large shrub. For best results plant it in well-drained soil, enriched with compost and water it regularly when it is young. Once it is established it will tolerate drought and can be watered moderately during dry spells. Feed it with a complete organic fertiliser in early spring and prune it when it has finished flowering to keep it neat.