Feathery Mimosa
calliandra calothyrsus
Also known as: ["Feathery Mimosa","Calliandra calothyrsus"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to tropical regions, known for its feathery, pinkish-red flowers and nitrogen-fixing ability.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Calliandra |
| Botanical Name: | Calliandra calothyrsus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or greenhouse in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
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 to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures, sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain humidity in dry heat.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–80°F (21–27°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/diseased wood, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Select new pot, prepare fresh soil, inspect roots, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid overwatering.
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.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and may lead to dieback or death in frost.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or coverings; move potted plants indoors; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply to soil, avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Calliandra calothyrsus. Ingestion of seeds or leaves can result in severe gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic effects, including liver or kidney damage in extreme cases.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Calliandra calothyrsus can lead to more severe toxic effects due to their sensitivity to certain plant compounds. The seeds and leaves contain substances that can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCalliandra calothyrsus contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The seeds and leaves are the primary toxic parts, containing saponins and other bioactive compounds that may irritate the digestive tract or trigger allergic responses in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Calliandra calothyrsus toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: Does Calliandra calothyrsus require a lot of water?
A: It is drought tolerant and does not require frequent watering once established.
Q: What are the uses of Calliandra calothyrsus?
A: It is used for ornamental purposes, as a nitrogen-fixing plant in agroforestry, and for its timber.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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