Calliandra haematocephala is also known as the ‘Red powder puff’ or ‘Blood Red Tassel Flower’. A small to medium sized shrub, this is a very colorful plant when in full flower. Masses of blood red flowers appear sitting on the top of the long arching stems.
In warmer climates it seems to bloom almost non stop, attractive to bees and butterflies and the flowers are followed bt attractive seed pods.
Flowering will be more prolific in full sun, however these plants do require a moist cool root run, so extra water may be required during long dry spells.
Originally from tropical South America, this attractive fast growing spreading shrub grows to 6 – 8 ft and does well in warm temperate areas. Main flush of flowers appear from autumn through to winter with large 8cm diameter fluffy red flower-heads, however this will depend on the climate.
Care
Calliandra haematocephala require a well drained humus rich fertile soil, full sun. Prune back in late winter to maintain shape.
It is a plant that can be grown in colder climates, however it may die right back to the ground in freezes. Plants can be pruned back hard after the main flowering period in winter. They will regrow quickly.
Calliandra Varieties
- Calliandra tweedei – Red Flowers
- Calliandra surinamensis – Mauave and white flowers
