Pompom (or Pompon) Tree

Dais cotinifolia L.

DAE-is coe-tin-ah-FOAL-ee-ah

Thymelaeaceae

Explanation of name:  Generic name from Greek for torch. The specific name refers to the foliar resemblance to the genus Cotinus.

Natural range: Africa

Recognition: Shrub or small tree having opposite elliptic leaves and pinkish fragrant flowers in pompom clusters

Landscape uses:   Flowering shrub or small tree with very showy fragrant flowers.  Requires ample water for establishment, becomes drought tolerant. Tendency to be partially deciduous. Propagate by seeds or cuttings.

Internet sources: http://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/mount_tomah_botanic_garden/the_garden/blooming_calendar/Dais_cotinifolia

http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Thymelaeaceae/Dais_cotinifolia.html

http://tropicalflowers.la.coocan.jp/Thymelaeaceae/Dais cotinifolia/Dais cotinifolia.htm

http://toptropicals.com/cgi-bin/garden_catalog/cat.cgi?uid=dais_cotinifolia