Calliandra haematocephala aka Powder Puff Tree

Calliandra haematocephala comes from Bolivia. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree. It belongs to Fabaceae, the pea family. Its common names include red powderpuff and powder puff tree. It grows in a tropical climate with a dry season. Its bushy, round shape suits beds and borders in warm regions. Birds and butterflies visit it.

Size varies with the climate and how the plant grows. Missouri Botanical Garden lists grown plants at 6 feet [1.83 metres] tall. It gives a spread of 3 feet [0.91 metres]. RHS lists height and spread at 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. In the wild, it reaches 10–15 feet [3–4.6 metres]. RHS says it takes five to ten years to mature. The leaves start copper-pink, then turn dark green. They are bipinnate, with leaflets on side branches called pinnae. Each pinna holds five to ten pairs of leaflets. The glossy leaves reach about 1.5 feet [0.45 metres] long.

Round buds open into domed flower heads. Fine, scarlet stamens give them their powderpuff look. Each head can span 3 inches. Some forms have pink or white blooms instead of red. Chicago Botanic Garden gives fall and winter as the main bloom time. A few flowers may appear through the rest of the year. RHS lists summer blooms. Thus, bloom time varies with where the plant grows.

Grow it outdoors in full sun, in a sheltered spot. Chicago Botanic Garden lists part shade too. It prefers rich, moist soil that drains well. It accepts sand or loam across a broad pH range. Missouri Botanical Garden says it copes with poor soil and high humidity. Sources list USDA zones 9–11. RHS rates it H1B, for outdoor summer growth in Britain. In colder regions, grow it in a pot indoors over winter. Under glass, give strong light with shade from hot sun. Give ample water during growth, but less in winter.

It also suits a greenhouse, conservatory, or use as a houseplant. Prune after blooms fade. Under glass, you may need to keep its size in check. Grow new plants from seed in spring. Take semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or use layering in spring. The cited accounts report few serious disease problems. Watch for spider mites and mealybugs. Aphids and caterpillars may cause problems too.