Tweed's Calliandra
calliandra tweedii
Also known as: []
Overview
A tropical shrub native to Central and South America, known for its feathery, pinkish-red flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Calliandra |
| Botanical Name: | Calliandra tweedii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain consistent room temperature; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain form.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or damaged branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim any damaged roots; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; discard excess water from saucers.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorched leaf edges in hot stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of root damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently if soil dries rapidly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil to avoid root shock.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Calliandra tweedii seeds or pods may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The effects are typically not severe but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Calliandra tweedii seeds or pods by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxicity is not life-threatening but may require veterinary attention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCalliandra tweedii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Calliandra tweedii be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Calliandra tweedii require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is Calliandra tweedii suitable for indoor growth?
A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation due to its size and light requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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