Scientific Name
Calliandra haematocephala Hassk.
Common Name(s)
Red Powder Puff, Powder Puff Tree
Synonym(s)
Calliandra haematocephala var. haematocephala, Calliandra inaequilatera, Calliandra novaesii, Feuilleea haematocephala, Anneslia haematocephala
Scientific Classification
Family: Fabaceae
Subfamily: Mimosoideae
Tribe: Ingeae
Genus: Calliandra
Flower
Color: Red
Bloom Time: Fall and winter
Description
Calliandra haematocephala is a spreading, well-branched shrub or small tree that can grow up to 15 feet (4.5 m) tall. The branches are brown, cylindric, and rough. The leaves are pinnately compound, oblong, and acute with 5 to 10 pairs of glossy green leaflets.
The flowers are clustered in globose heads that can reach up to 3 inches (7 cm) in diameter. The numerous stamens are long and silky, very brilliant pink to red.
Hardiness
USDA Hardiness Zone 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °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. You'll probably have more success if you have a conservatory or sunroom.
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 into 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.
Origin
Calliandra haematocephala is native to tropical America.
Links
- Back to genus Calliandra
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
