Fruit – flat brown bean like seed pods / not edible
Growing Conditions
Air – good air circulation / humid environment
Sun – morning to midday sun is best / leaves may close in high heat or intense light / good sun promotes smaller leaves
Water – moist not wet - dry down not dry out / morning to midday is best / new leaves increase transpiration
Maintenance
Roots – Repotting is best when night temperatures are consistently above 60 degrees. Young roots can be fragile. Well-draining soil. Protect from sun for 2 weeks after root pruning.
Trunk – Properly clean and protect large cuts from moisture as cuts can be slow and/or difficult to heal. Watch for wire scarring. Healthy trees can be heavily reduced.
Branches – Branches become more brittle and difficult to bend with age. Use wire to set initial primary and/or secondary branch structure where applicable. Watch for wire scarring. The clip-n-grow technique is well utilized. Properly clean and protect large cuts from moisture. Healthy trees can be heavily pruned. Protect from sun for 2 weeks after heavy branch pruning.
Leaves / Flowers – Leaf size can be controlled by root maturation and pinching new leaf tips. Defoliation is not necessary but can be utilized on mature healthy specimen. Partial defoliation during the growing season can increase airflow, visual design, and reduce predatory insects and fungus. Flowers can be controlled/encouraged by removing all signs of blooms, within 20 days of removal and in combination with proper nutrition, the powderpuff will be teaming with showy flowers. Watch for insects and related fungus on flowers and new stem growth.
Propagation: Cuttings and air-layers are reliable but be advised new roots are delicate. Night temperatures must be consistently over 60 degrees for best results.
Potential Issues
Insects – aphids / ants / scale
Fungus – sooty mold on leaves and branches caused by aphids / fungal leaf rust / root fungus can occur because of poor soil or drainage
*NOTES – Outside Only. Great for pollinators. Native to Southern Mexico, other species origin varies. Member of legume family.
2. Common Name: Pink Powderpuff
Scientific Name: Calliandra surinamensis
Characteristics
Bark – light tan or grey in color / smooth – slightly textured
Branches – brittle / straight / droopy
Leaves – alternate / oblong / bipinnately compound / medium green
