Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter to prevent waterlogged roots. Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot, as this plant is sensitive to consistently wet conditions.
Also known as Blood Red Tassel Flower · Flor De La Cruz · Lehua-Haole
Calliandra haematocephala, commonly known as the Red Powderpuff, is an attractive evergreen shrub celebrated for its vibrant, fluffy red flower clusters.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade for best flowering and growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained, sandy loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures (18-24°C); protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter to prevent waterlogged roots. Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot, as this plant is sensitive to consistently wet conditions.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove dead or crossing branches. Heavy pruning can be done in early spring before new growth begins to promote a more compact form.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Root cuttings in a well-draining mix, keeping them moist and warm. Alternatively, sow seeds in spring under glass after a period of cold stratification.
Repot young plants annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Avoid disturbing the roots excessively during repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Stickpea (Calliandra haematocephala)
Where Stickpea (Calliandra haematocephala) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Calliandra |
| Species | Calliandra haematocephala |
Similar in genus Calliandra
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data