Powder Puff Red Mother plant

Plant Details

• Common Name: Red Powder Puff, Calliandra

• Botanical Name: Calliandra haematocephala

• Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)

• Type: Tropical flowering shrub

• Origin: Native to Bolivia, but grown widely in tropical and subtropical regions

• Appearance:

  • Grows as a dense, bushy shrub (up to 3–4 m in height).

  • Produces bright red, powder-puff-like flowers made of stamens, which attract birds and butterflies.

  • Leaves are fern-like and compound, folding at night.

 Care Requirements

• Sun Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade (more flowers in full sun).

• Watering: Moderate watering; prefers moist but well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogging.

• Soil: Fertile, loamy soil enriched with compost.

• Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer or organic compost once a month during the growing/flowering season.

• Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth.

• Propagation: Easily propagated by seeds or semi-hardwood cuttings.

Uses & Benefits

1. Ornamental Value:

   • Grown as a garden shrub, hedge, or border plant.

   • Ideal for landscaping due to its long blooming season.

2. Attracts Wildlife:

   • Flowers attract hummingbirds, sunbirds, and butterflies.

   • Provides nectar and enhances garden biodiversity.

3. Air Quality:

   • Like most green shrubs, contributes to air purification and oxygen release.

4. Hedges & Screens:

   • Can be trimmed into dense hedges or privacy screens.