Calliandra californica     
Baja fairy duster   
Fabaceae Family     

Calliandra californica

Form: open, vase-shaped shrub
Seasonality: evergreen, semi-evergreen in Tucson
Size: 2-6ft with equal spread
Leaves: bipinnately compound borne in pairs, finely cut, bluish green
Flowers: bright red, rose, or plum; loose puff or tassel shape; predominate red stamens; strongest bloom in early summer, blooms sporadically through fall
Fruit: dehiscent pod
Stems/Trunks: upright branches, stems are light gray growing woodier with age
Range/Origin: Baja California
Hardiness: high to mid teens

 

'puff-ball' of red stamens on Calliandra californica

LANDSCAPE VALUE:

• accent or specimen plant
• color
• informal hedges
• attracts hummingbirds

CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Exposure: full or part sun
• Water: drought tolerant but best with regular waterings during hot seasons (once per week or once per every two weeks)
• Soil: adaptable, requires good drainage
• Propagation: seeds or vegetative cuttings
• Maintenance: minimal; remove wood damaged by cold temps

NOTES:

C. eriophylla darker brown
trademarked variety "Maricopa Red" has a bright red flower

seed pods and blooms on Calliandra californica

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This page was first created July 2, 2001 and last modified February 10, 2006.

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