Red Powder Puff
calliandra brevipes
Also known as: ["Brevipes Calliandra","Red Mimosa"]
Overview
A small tree or shrub native to tropical regions, known for its showy, red, powder-puff-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Calliandra |
| Botanical Name: | Calliandra brevipes |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
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 plant is overgrown.
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 gradually to direct sun if moving from shade; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement seasonally to maintain optimal light levels.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; use a thermometer to monitor microclimates; adjust care based on seasonal temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing which can burn roots.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings with at least 2 nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth indicates establishment.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of stems, heading back to encourage branching, removal of dead or diseased wood.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or overgrown stems, maintain desired size.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, bypass pruners, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above nodes; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water and place in appropriate light after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain away, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
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 to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in cold; wilting or scorched leaf edges in excessive heat.
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; insulate roots with mulch; protect from drafts; reduce watering.
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 pebble trays; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
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
Non-toxicCalliandra brevipes is not known to exhibit toxic properties to cats under normal circumstances.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicCalliandra brevipes is not known to exhibit toxic properties to dogs under normal circumstances.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicCalliandra brevipes is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Calliandra brevipes be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Calliandra brevipes require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is Calliandra brevipes 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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