Powder puff tree (Calliandra trinervia)
Care, watering, light and tips for Powder puff tree on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Powder puff tree
Calliandra trinervia, commonly known as Red Powder Puff, is a small shrub or tree from the Fabaceae family, valued for its striking red, pom-pom-like inflorescences that resemble bottle brushes. Its flowers, which appear for much of the year in warm climates, attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for tropical and subtropical gardens, either as a focal plant or in low hedges.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering and prefers well-drained soil, rich in organic matter. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods. It tolerates light pruning to maintain its shape and encourage denser blooming. Avoid frost, as it is not cold-hardy and will suffer severe damage below 0°C (32°F).
How to save a dying Powder puff tree
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown leaves falling profusely, lack of blooming, dry and brittle stems.
- First aid
- Check soil drainage and moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, repot into better-draining soil.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot or prolonged drought leading to dehydration. Also, lack of direct sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted or stems entirely dry. Act quickly.