FAMILY :
LeguminosaeORIGIN : South AmericaTYPE/USES : shrub, bonsaiSIZE : up to 6'GROWTH RATE : slowLIGHT REQUIREMENTS : full/partial sunWATER REQUIREMENTS : averageMIN. TEMP. : low 30'sFLOWER : year round
Most Powder Puffs grow fast and can become really big if not trimmed constantly. Calliandra haematocephala 'Nana' on the other hand is a slow grower and only reaches the height of about 5'-6' (if not trimmed.) It can easily be kept smaller as a potted plant. Another good advantage is that it blooms most of the year, blooming almost all the time during the warmer months of the year. Even though it is slow, with time it makes a beautiful bonsai. It will grow well from filtered light to full sun and requires average water (a little bit less in the winter.) The soil has to have very good drainage, which will be important especially in the winter when some plants have the tendency to become chlorotic (yellow leaves.) If that happens, adding chelated iron will likely correct the problem. The Dwarf Powder Puff can handle a light freeze for a few hours but it will grow better if protected.
Available Options:
Size:
1 gallon pot