Overview
Calliandra houstoniana is a bushy shrubs in the genus Calliandra, part of the Fabaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Calliandra houstoniana grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include architectural, patio and container plants, sub-tropical and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Calliandra houstoniana is a bushy, evergreen cultivar within the Calliandra genus, known for its distinctive spherical flower clusters often called 'powder puff' due to their appearance. As a member of the pea family, it thrives in full sun with a south or west-facing aspect and prefers sheltered locations. This cultivar grows well in fertile, well-drained loam or sandy soils across a range of pH levels, including acid, alkaline, and neutral. It is suitable for architectural planting, patios, containers, and sub-tropical conservatories, offering interest during spring and summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Calliandra
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Calliandra houstoniana size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Calliandra houstoniana
- Propagation
- Seed sown at 16-18°C in spring, semi-ripe cuttings in summer, layering in spring
- Pest resistance
- Red spider mite, Mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Calliandra houstoniana?
Calliandra houstoniana prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Calliandra houstoniana need?
Calliandra houstoniana grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Calliandra houstoniana hardy in the UK?
Calliandra houstoniana has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Calliandra houstoniana?
Seed sown at 16-18°C in spring, semi-ripe cuttings in summer, layering in spring.
