Dais cotinifolia, commonly known as the Pom-Pom Tree or Pincushion Tree, is a small to medium-sized evergreen belonging to the Asteraceae family. Native to South America, it can be found in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. The tree grows up to 10 meters in height and features a rounded crown with dense foliage.
The leaves of Dais cotinifolia are simple, alternate, and ovate with serrated margins. They are dark green on top and lighter underneath. Its most distinctive feature is the flowers, which grow in large clusters at branch ends, resembling pom-poms or pincushions—hence its common names.
The flowers are bright orange-red and create a striking contrast against the dark green foliage, making the tree an attractive ornamental choice for gardens and parks. The fruit produced by Dais cotinifolia is an achene, containing a single seed.
Dais cotinifolia prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and various soil types, including sandy soils with good drainage. It requires moderate watering during dry periods but should not be overwatered to prevent root rot.
In traditional South American medicine, various parts of this plant have been used for their medicinal properties, such as treating respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis, thanks to their anti-inflammatory effects.
Overall, Dais cotinifolia is an attractive ornamental tree that adds color and vibrancy wherever it grows. It also has medicinal benefits, making it a valuable addition not just for its aesthetics but also for health purposes.
The Pom-pom tree has strong resistance to disease and is generally unlikely to suffer from illnesses. As for maintenance, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors, it needs little watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. The Pom-pom tree is appropriate for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and does not call for extensive care experience.
How to keep Dais Cotinifolia.
Light
Pom-pom tree does best when it receives abundant sunlight. Insufficient light can limit its growth, while too much can cause leaves to become scorched. Coming from regions with ample sun, it is adapted to absorb rays for healthy development. Its sunlight requirements do not change across different stages.
Water
The pom-pom tree thrives in conditions similar to its native habitat, which includes occasional dry spells, making it drought-tolerant. To care for a pom-pom tree, water it every two weeks and ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged. Its growth is influenced by the availability of water, particularly benefiting from rainfall during its active growing season.
Humidity
This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.
Temperature
Pom-pom tree comes from areas where temperatures typically remain around 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). It favors heat and can tolerate high summer temperatures. In colder seasons, make sure it stays above 68 °F (20 ℃).
Fertilizer
The best time to fertilize a Pom-pom tree is in early spring as it comes out of dormancy. This encourages overall growth and supports flower development. Fertilization improves the foliage, stems, and branches, and helps produce flowers that are larger, more vibrant, and longer-lasting. It also helps move nutrients from the roots to the blooms and enhances the plant's health and resistance to disease.
Pruning
The pom-pom tree is a small deciduous tree known for its round, pink flowers. To care for it, begin pruning in early spring by removing any dead wood and shaping the tree to maintain balance. Thinning the interior branches will improve airflow and allow more light to reach the center of the tree. Light pruning is recommended to encourage blooming and promote vigor, while heavy cuts should be avoided to ensure the tree's optimal health.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Dais
- Family
- Thymelaeaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 3.66 m
- Mature Spread
- 3.96 m to 6.1 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green, Forest Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Pink, Purple
- Flower Size
- 4.06 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Malawi, Lesotho, South Africa, Eswatini, Tanzania, Zimbabwe
Other names.
Reader questions.
How should I water my Pom-pom tree?
To ensure excellent root development, place a garden hose at the base of the plant instead of directly spraying the leaves. If the plant is outdoors and exposed to direct sunlight, the leaves will need more water. You can use bubblers to moisten the roots of each plant or soaker hoses to cover the entire garden or bed. When adding or removing plants, soaker hoses will help push the roots deeper. After watering, make sure to drain any excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering again. Watering at ground level will prevent diseases. On a sunny day, it may be beneficial to spray the entire bush with water. Whether the tree is potted or in the ground, keep in mind that the Pom-pom tree prefers deep watering rather than light sprinkling.
Why should I put fertilizer on my Pom-pom tree?
Fertilization is crucial for the overall health and well-being of a Pom-pom tree. It not only helps the tree develop healthy foliage, stems, and branches, but also plays a significant role in producing beautiful and long-lasting flowers. The right fertilizer aids in the efficient transfer of nutrients from the roots to the flowers, resulting in larger and more vibrant blooms. Additionally, proper fertilization improves the tree's overall health, making it more resilient against diseases.
How much sunlight does the Pom-pom tree need to grow?
Tropical ornamental plants that thrive in full sun require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. These plants are well-suited to areas with strong and direct sunlight, as they need this light to flourish. In their natural habitats, they tend to grow in open fields or along forest edges, where they can enjoy abundant sunlight all day long.
What temperature is best for a Pom-pom tree?
To help your tropical plants thrive, it's best to maintain a temperature range of 75℉ to 90℉ (25-32℃). While different species can tolerate temperatures outside this range, sticking within a few degrees of these limits will ensure optimal growth. However, there are extreme temperature limits to be aware of. Anything below 50℉ (10℃) or above 95℉ (35℃) can hinder growth and cause issues with the leaves and stems. Low temperatures are particularly damaging, as even a light frost can lead to the death of your tropical plants. In fact, cellular death can occur rapidly, with some species dying within 12 to 24 hours.
If I give my Pom-pom tree too much or too little water, what should I do?
An overwatered Pom-pom tree will show several signs of distress. Its leaves will turn yellow, drop off, and wilt, and the plant itself may appear dull and unhealthy. Mushy stems are also a common indication of overwatering. Conversely, wilting can also be a sign of under watering. In this case, the leaves will become crispy and dry instead of soft and wilted. To care for an overwatered tree, adjust your watering schedule accordingly. When the soil is dry and simply watering is not enough, thoroughly water the tree. However, even with this treatment, the tree may continue to appear dry and have yellow leaves due to root damage. Once the tree has returned to normal, the yellowing of leaves will cease. It is important to constantly check the moisture levels of an indoor Pom-pom tree. Avoid overwatering, and be on the lookout for black spots, which indicate a need for the soil to dry out. If root rot is present, consider transferring the tree to a different pot, especially if you observe discolored and slimy roots. Preventing root rot is crucial, so ensure that the soil does not become too soggy. When planting a Pom-pom tree outdoors, dig a little deeper. If the soil is excessively dry, this may be a sign of underwatering, in which case proper watering is necessary to aid the plant's recovery.
When should I fertilize my Pom-pom tree?
To ensure the healthy growth and flowering of your Pom-pom tree, it is best to fertilize it in early spring, as it exits dormancy and prepares to bloom. This provides ample energy for overall growth. However, the tree can also benefit from a smaller fertilizer application in the fall. Some gardeners opt to fertilize the tree during planting, but this is not always necessary.
What will happen if the Pom-pom tree doesn't get enough sunlight?
Tropical ornamental plants that need full sun may face issues if they don't receive enough sunlight. They might become leggy and weak, and their leaves could turn yellow or pale. Furthermore, they may stop producing flowers. Ultimately, if these plants continue to lack the required amount of direct sunlight, there is a possibility that they may die.
Does the Pom-pom tree need different temperatures at different stages of growth?
The Pom-pom tree can enter different growing phases without temperature changes, but it's important to keep the temperature consistent. Fluctuations in temperature can slow down its growth regardless of the phase it is in. Therefore, it is best to maintain a controlled environment for the tree. The optimal temperature range for the tree is between 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃), with staying above the lower limit being particularly important. While it is not ideal to exceed 90℉ (32℃), the Pom-pom tree, being a tropical plant, can tolerate higher temperatures. On the other hand, temperatures below 50℉ (10℃), especially 40℉ (5℃), will directly harm this plant species, which thrives in heat.
How often do I need to water my Pom-pom tree?
The Pom-pom tree prefers deep and infrequent watering, especially when planted in pots. The limited water storage in pots causes the soil to dry out quickly, so you should soak them with a gallon of water each time. In cold regions, watering every 3 to 5 days is necessary. It is best to water early in the morning when the soil is dry, whether the tree is indoors or outdoors. Checking the soil will help you determine if watering is needed. When the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry, it's time for a full watering. On hot days, monitor the moisture daily as the soil in the pot can dry out rapidly. If you have a garden, irrigating the soil is also necessary. In hot climates, watering once a week is recommended. Only water when about 2 to 3 inches of soil are too dry, and take into account the amount of rainwater received to prevent root rot. If there is ample rainfall, additional watering may not be required. Pom-pom trees typically grow during spring and fall. When planted outdoors, adding mulch about 3 to 4 inches deep helps conserve water. Sandy soil requires more frequent watering due to faster drainage, while clay soil needs less frequent watering to prevent root rot. You can mark the date on the calendar every time you water and keep an eye out for drooping leaves, as this might indicate that you are a day late in watering.
When is the best time to not fertilize my Pom-pom tree?
During the winter, Pom-pom trees do not need to be fertilized as they are in a dormant phase and do not require much energy from the soil. Fertilizing during this time can lead to potential negative effects from overfertilization. The best times to feed a Pom-pom tree are in early spring and fall. Therefore, during most of spring and summer, fertilizer is not necessary. Additionally, it is advisable to refrain from fertilizing if the plant is experiencing excessively hot or dry conditions.
What will happen if the Pom-pom tree gets too much sunlight?
Tropical ornamental plants that thrive in full sun require ample direct sunlight, but excessive exposure to intense sunlight can harm them. Prolonged periods of direct sunlight can cause sunburned leaves or the development of unsightly brown spots. Additionally, if the soil dries out too rapidly in full sun, these plants may become dehydrated.
Does the Pom-pom tree require varying temperatures in different seasons?
The pom-pom tree does not require different temperatures for each growing season. The most crucial aspect of seasonal care is maintaining an optimal temperature range. It is recommended to keep this plant indoors to have control over the temperature, regardless of the outdoor climate. Additionally, light is significant for tropical species, including pom-pom trees. These plants prefer a partial and filtered level of sun exposure. This means that the light they receive should be dappled or filtered, with bright but indirect light being the best choice when growing them indoors. Excessive direct sunlight can harm the plant's leaves and limit its growth potential.