Overview

Powder puff bush, Calliandra haematocephala, is a warm-climate evergreen shrub known for bright red, brushlike flowers held against finely divided foliage.

Mature Size and Habit

Plants commonly grow 8 to 12 feet tall and wide, sometimes larger with age, forming a broad multi-stemmed crown.

Best Landscape Uses

Use as a specimen, flowering screen, pollinator-garden anchor, or tropical backdrop.

Sunlight

Full sun gives the densest habit and best bloom, though partial sun is acceptable. Plants in excessive shade grow open and flower less.

Soil, Drainage, and Irrigation

Well-drained soil is essential. Water consistently during establishment, then allow slight drying between deep irrigations.

Best Planting Season for Tampa and Central Florida

Spring is the safest season because warm soil supports rapid rooting before winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Train structural branches when young and thin crowded growth after a bloom cycle. Avoid frequent hard shearing, which removes buds and creates weak surface shoots.

Wildlife Value

The conspicuous flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.

Cold and Heat Sensitivity

Heat and humidity suit the species, but temperatures below freezing can burn foliage and kill small branches. Established roots often recover after moderate cold.

Safety, Roots, and Placement Warnings

The plant has no major thorn issue, but low arching branches can obstruct walks. Allow clearance from structures and utilities.

Invasive Concerns

Powder puff bush is nonnative and should be monitored for volunteer seedlings.

Helpful Resources

Read the UF/IFAS Extension profile for Florida-focused flowering, wildlife, size, drought, salt, and cold guidance.