Calliandra haematocephala
pink powderpuff
A large, tropical shrub with 45cm long leaves, made up of pairs of glossy, dark green leaflets. The pink or red pompom flowers, comprising a mass of stamens, are borne in summer
Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink Red | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Calliandra are a genus within the pea family and can be herbaceous perennials, shrubs or, very rarely, small trees. They have bipinnate leaves and globose flowerheads which earn the nickname 'powder puff' or 'fairy duster' plants
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Bolivia
How to grow
Cultivation
Under glass, grow in peat-free, loam-based compost in full light with shade from hot sun. When in growth, water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; water sparingly in winter
Propagation
Propagate by sowing seed at 16-18°C in spring. Take semi-ripe cuttings in summer or layer in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
Pruning group 1 after flowering; may need restrictive pruning under glass
Pests
May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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