Combretum molle
Combretum molle · Combretaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around combretum molle and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Soft Combretum, Powder Bush
- Family
- Combretaceae
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (scarlet red flowers)
- Mature size
- 3 to 5 m in height and width
- Growth
- Moderate to fast
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender (tropical to subtropical climate)
- Origin
- West and Central Africa
- Soil type
- Well-drained, light soil, drought-tolerant
Care
Sunlight
Place your Combretum molle in full sun or partial shade to promote abundant flowering. A very sunny location intensifies the bright red color of the flowers. Protect it from strong winds that could damage the branches.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year of establishment and during the active growing season. Once established, this plant tolerates dry periods well. Reduce watering in winter, particularly in temperate climates. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Soil and drainage
Grow Combretum molle in light, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Avoid water accumulation that promotes root rot. Adding sand or coarse organic matter improves natural drainage.
Pruning
Perform light pruning after flowering to maintain a harmonious and compact shape. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches from the center. Avoid severe pruning as it may reduce flowering in the following year.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and early summer during the growing season. Light fertilization is sufficient; excess nitrogen can promote foliage at the expense of flowers. Stop feeding in autumn and winter.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites or mealybugs, particularly in very dry climates or indoors. Good air circulation reduces the risk of fungal diseases. Regularly remove fallen leaves to prevent pest proliferation.
Did you know?
Combretum molle is nicknamed 'powder bush' because of the red-orange powder that covers its fruits after the sepals fall. In Africa, this species has long been used for therapeutic and ornamental purposes. Its spectacular scarlet inflorescences make it a true gem of tropical gardens and a major source of attraction for pollinators.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Laguncularia racemosaLaguncularia racemosa
- Indian almondTerminalia catappa
- Conocarpus erectusConocarpus erectus
- Terminalia leiocarpaTerminalia leiocarpa
- Combretum collinumCombretum collinum
- AfaraTerminalia superba
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.