Calliandra tweediei – Red Powderpuff

Description

Calliandra tweediei – Red Powderpuff (sold as C. tweedii)

Family: Fabaceae
Packet Size: 8 seeds

Description

This red-flowering powderpuff has also been sold under the botanical spelling Calliandra tweedii. The accepted species spelling is Calliandra tweediei. The underlying South American species produces vivid red brush-like flower heads and attractive compound foliage.

The plant forms a flowering shrub in warm climates, with masses of coloured stamens standing out against deep green leaves.

Key Features

• Flowers: Bright scarlet to deep-red powderpuff heads.
• Foliage: Attractive fine compound leaves.
• Habit: Ornamental flowering shrub that can be lightly clipped to shape.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun to light shade.
• Soil: Moist but freely draining garden soil.
• Climate: Warm subtropical or tropical conditions; protect from hard frosts.
• Care: Water while establishing, then prune lightly after flowering.

Propagation from Seed

1. Prepare: Soak seed in room-temperature water overnight to help hydration.
2. Sow: Sow 5–10 mm deep in a clean, freely draining seed mix.
3. Germinate: Maintain warmth and gentle, even moisture in filtered sunlight.
4. Grow on: Transplant rooted seedlings to pots and increase sunlight gradually.

Seed-Grown Variation

Seed-grown plants may vary in flower shade, form and growth habit; individual seedling characteristics are not guaranteed.

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.