Powder Puff Tree (Calliandra haematocephala) – Flowering plants

Powder Puff Tree (Calliandra haematocephala) is a very popular evergreen flowering shrub or small tree. The plentiful, fragrant blossom is the main reason for its popularity, with big puffs, 2-3 inches across, of deep red, watermelon pink or white silky stamens, produced during warm months (November -April). Powder Puff Tree can be grown indoor if trimmed and grown in a pot but it will be best if you can grow it outside in a warm climate.

Scientific Name: Calliandra haematocephala
Synonyms: Anneslia haematocephala, Calliandra inaequilatera, Calliandra novaesii, Feuilleea haematocephala
Common Names: Powder Puff Tree, Red Powder Puff, Red Powderpuff, Blood-red Tassel-flower, Pink Powderpuff, Lehua Haole.

Scientific classification:

Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Calliandra
Species: C. haematocephala

How to grow and maintain Powder Puff Tree (Calliandra haematocephala):

Light:
It thrives best in bright light to full sun year-round. Shade from the strong summer sun.

Soil:
It grows well in a well-drained, good-quality, all-purpose potting mix.

Water:
Water regularly, Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Yellow leaves are a sign of overwatering.

Humidity:
It prefers moderate to high. Use a humidity tray or room humidifier if air is dry.

Temperature:
It thrives best in average to warm room temperatures 60°F – 80°F / 16°C-27°C.

Fertilizer:
Fertilize every two weeks in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half.

Propagation:
It can be easily propagated by stem cuttings. Take 3-inch stem tip cuttings in spring and root in moist perlite.

Pests and Diseases:
It has no serious pest or disease problems. Sometimes susceptible to caterpillars, spider mites and aphids.