Calliandra haematocephala ‘Alba’ – White Powderpuff

Description

Calliandra haematocephala ‘Alba’ – White Powderpuff

Family: Fabaceae
Packet Size: 8 seeds

Description

White Powderpuff is an appealing pale-flowered selection of Calliandra haematocephala, a shrub or small tree originally native to Bolivia. It produces soft, rounded white flower heads formed by masses of fine, silky stamens.

The delicate blooms contrast with leafy green branches and lend a light, graceful appearance to tropical and sheltered subtropical gardens. This seed packet is listed from the white-flowered form rather than as a vegetatively propagated plant.

Key Features

• Flowers: Rounded, pure white to creamy-white powderpuff heads on the parent selection.
• Foliage: Compound, ornamental green leaves.
• Garden value: Attractive flowering shrub for warm courtyards and ornamental plantings.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun or a position with some light afternoon shade.
• Soil: Fertile soil that drains well while holding some moisture.
• Climate: Warm, preferably frost-free gardens; shelter seedlings during cool weather.
• Care: Prune carefully after blooming if a compact or rounded habit is desired.

Propagation from Seed

1. Prepare: Soak seeds in room-temperature water overnight.
2. Sow: Place seeds about 5–10 mm deep in freely draining propagation mix.
3. Germinate: Keep warm, lightly moist and bright but sheltered.
4. Grow on: Move well-rooted seedlings into individual pots before planting out.

Seed-Grown Variation

Seeds from the white-flowering ‘Alba’ parent selection may not all retain its white bloom colour. Individual seedlings can differ from the source plant.

Germination advice: These instructions are a recommended guide. Germination results and timing may vary depending on seed freshness, storage, temperature and growing conditions. Alternative propagation methods may also be successful.