Red powderpuff (Calliandra haematocephala)

Also known as: Powder-puff tree, Red powder puff tree, Powder puff bush

Calliandra haematocephala, commonly known as the Red Powderpuff or Fairy Duster, is a flowering plant noted for its distinctive fluffy flower heads. The name "haematocephala" is derived from Greek, with "haima" meaning blood and "kephale" meaning head, referring to its vibrant red, blood-like flower clusters. While native to tropical South America, it can endure brief periods of freezing temperatures. The plant's flowers are composed mainly of stamens, and though typically red, some variations may display lighter colors. Caterpillars are known to feed on this species.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Red powderpuff

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub, Tree

Plant Height

5 m

Spread

3 m to 4.5 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

3 cm

Flower Color

Pink Red White

Images of Red powderpuff

Quickly Identify Red powderpuff

Identify Calliandra haematocephala by its unique powder puff-like flowers, which are composed of numerous long stamens. The leaves are bipinnately compound and close up at night or in response to touch. The plant usually grows as a shrub or small tree and produces flowers primarily in shades of red and pink.

Scientific Classification of Red powderpuff

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Family

Legume

Genus

Powder puff plant

Species

Red powderpuff

Planting and Growing of Red powderpuff

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

8-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Red powderpuff?

Water Calliandra haematocephala so that the soil is thoroughly moist but not soggy. Ensure the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry before watering again. This helps prevent root rot and promotes healthy root development, providing the plant with sufficient moisture without drowning it.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Red powderpuff? ›

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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Red powderpuff? ›

How to save an overwatered Red powderpuff? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Red powderpuff?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours daily

Calliandra haematocephala thrives in partial to full sun. Ideal light supports robust flowering and foliage. It's essential for optimizing photosynthesis and overall vigor, giving the plant energy to maintain its beauty.

What is the ideal sunlight exposure for Calliandra haematocephala? ›

How can I ensure my Calliandra haematocephala receives its ideal light conditions? ›

What benefits does my plant receive from ideal lighting conditions? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Red powderpuff?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Calliandra haematocephala is between 65°F and 75°F. This range ensures optimal growth as it mimics the plant's native tropical climate, promoting healthy foliage and vibrant blooms. Maintaining this temperature range helps in minimizing stress and supports the plant's metabolic processes efficiently.

What Soil is Best for Red powderpuff?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Sandy soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Calliandra haematocephala benefits greatly from soil that drains well, preventing root rot and ensuring healthy growth. Proper drainage allows for adequate air circulation to the roots, which is crucial for nutrient absorption. This plant thrives in soil with balanced moisture retention. The soil must retain enough moisture to keep the plant hydrated but should not become soggy, which can harm roots and hinder growth. For vigorous growth and profuse blooming, the soil should be rich in organic matter. This nutrient availability supports the plant’s metabolic processes and encourages vibrant flower production. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Red powderpuff?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Calliandra haematocephala, fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength for potted plants every two weeks. For outdoor planting, incorporate 1 to 2 pounds of a granular fertilizer once in early spring. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Red powderpuff?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Trim back overgrown stems to maintain shape. Make clean cuts at an angle just above a node to promote new growth. Prune after the blooming period to avoid cutting off buds. This helps encourage fresh blooms and maintains the plant's vibrant appearance throughout the season. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Red powderpuff plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early summer

Soak Calliandra haematocephala seeds in water for 24 hours before planting. This helps to soften the seed coat and encourages faster germination. Ensure the water is at room temperature to maintain the seed's viability.

Select a healthy stem and cut a 6-8 inch section with pruning shears. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to promote root growth and plant it in a potting mix.

Choose a healthy, low-growing branch and bend it to the ground. Cover a section of the branch with soil while keeping the tip exposed. Use a pin to hold the branch in place, encouraging roots to grow from the covered section.

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How to Repot Red powderpuff plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot your Calliandra haematocephala when its roots start to emerge from the drainage holes or the growth becomes stunted. This usually occurs every 2-3 years, indicating the need for new soil nutrients and space to grow.

Select a pot that is one or two sizes larger than the current one, with ample drainage holes. A slightly larger pot ensures the plant has room to grow and prevents root rot by allowing excess water to escape.

Opt for a well-draining, loamy soil mix that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged. This type of soil provides the roots with enough aeration, nutrients, and moisture balance, promoting healthy growth.

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