Surinam Powderpuff (Calliandra surinamensis)

Surinam Powderpuff

Calliandra surinamensis

Fluffy powderpuff blooms look like pink cotton balls. Evergreen shrub; common name: Surinam Powderpuff.

Full sun
2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full to partial sun; tolerates light shade but produces the most blooms in direct, daily sunlight
💧
Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Thrives in warm, tropical temperatures; protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C to prevent leaf damage
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Bipinnate, fern-like leaves that fold at night; bright green, delicate foliage
  • Flower: Round, fluffy pink inflorescences (powderpuffs) with prominent, thread-like stamens
  • Stem: Slender, woody stems with light brown, slightly textured bark
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; mist foliage occasionally to boost humidity

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel tea:Soak 1–2 chopped banana peels in 1 liter of water for 3 days; strain the liquid and use to water the soil directly to avoid attracting pests
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent powderpuff blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
  • Trim overgrown or leggy branches in early spring to maintain a compact, rounded shape
  • Remove damaged, yellowing, or diseased foliage to improve airflow and prevent pest infestations
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported adverse effects

Humans: No known toxic effects in humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; attracts pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds