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red powderpuff

Scientific Name: Calliandra haematomma

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree, Subshrub, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Calliandra haematocephala: The Red Powder Puff

The Calliandra haematocephala, commonly known as the Red Powder Puff, is celebrated for its striking flowers that resemble fluffy powder puffs. This plant brings a touch of the tropics to gardens and conservatories with its vibrant blooms and evergreen foliage.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant has numerous long, slender stamens.

Scientific Classification and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Calliandra haematocephala Hassk.
  • Common Names: Red Powder Puff, Powder Puff Tree, Blood Red Tassel Flower, Mei rui hua (in the Philippines)
  • Family: Fabaceae (formerly Leguminosae)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: Calliandra anomala, Calliandra tergemina, Inga emarginata

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Borneo and Bolivia.
  • Thrives in sandy soils and full sun, particularly in regions like South Florida and Hawaii.
  • Adaptable to zone 9 near Tampa, Florida, and can be grown in partial sun.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Evergreen shrub or small tree reaching 4 to 5 meters (approximately 13-16 feet) or up to 15 feet (4.5 m) tall.
  • Spreading, well-branched growth habit.
  • Flowers consist of a mass of red stamens, typically 3-4 inches in diameter. Blossoms can also be pink or white.
  • Woody stems.

Quirky Facts

  • The showiness of the Red Powder Puff flower comes not from its petals, but from its numerous, delicate stamens.