Scientific Name
Calliandra californica Benth.
Common Name(s)
Baja Fairy Duster, Red Fairy Duster, California Fairy Duster, Flame Bush
Synonym(s)
Anneslia californica, Anneslia mixta, Anneslia mucronulata, Feuilleea californica
Scientific Classification
Family: Fabaceae
Subfamily: Mimosoideae
Tribe: Ingeae
Genus: Calliandra
Origin
Calliandra californica is native to Mexico (Baja California).
Flower
Color: Red
Bloom Time: Summer
Description
Calliandra californica is a slow-growing evergreen woody shrub that grows up to 6 feet (1.8 m) tall. Its dark green leaves are like tight miniature ferns overshadowed by red flowers reminiscent of a feather duster, hence the common name Fairy Duster.
The flowers appear in early summer.

Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9a to 10b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Powder Puff plants are not especially difficult to grow indoors, but it can be tricky coaxing them to bloom. They prefer regular moisture, high humidity, bright light, and high temperatures. In the absence of these conditions, they will not grow as vigorously and will likely not bloom at all. If you have a conservatory or sunroom, you'll likely have more success.
Powder Puffs are not especially susceptible to pests but will sometimes suffer from infestations of mealybugs, aphids, and mites. Signs of infestation include tiny webs on plants, clumps of white "powdery" residue, or visible insects on the plant. Treat infestations as soon as possible to prevent them from spreading to the rest of your collection. As always, start with the least toxic treatment option first, only progressing to more serious chemicals if your initial efforts fail.
Repot in the early spring (when you take cuttings). In their native habitat, Powder Puff plants grow to medium-sized shrubs or small trees, depending on the year-round conditions and species. Indoors won't become that large, but if your plant is very healthy and thriving, it can easily outgrow your pot and overpower the space. To keep it smaller, only repot every other year.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Powder Puff Plants.
Links
- Back to genus Calliandra
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
Photo Gallery
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