Overview
Calliandra selloi is a bushy shrubs in the genus Calliandra, part of the Fabaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Calliandra selloi 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 selloi is a bushy, evergreen cultivar of the Calliandra genus, which belongs to the pea family Fabaceae. These plants are known for their bipinnate leaves and distinctive spherical flower clusters, often called 'powder puff' or 'fairy duster' due to their unique appearance. Suited to full sun and sheltered positions, this cultivar thrives in fertile, well-drained loam or sandy soils across a range of pH levels. It is hardy to H1b and is ideal for architectural use, patios, containers, and sub-tropical conservatories or greenhouses, with 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 selloi 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 selloi
- 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 selloi?
Calliandra selloi prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Calliandra selloi need?
Calliandra selloi grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Calliandra selloi hardy in the UK?
Calliandra selloi 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 selloi?
Seed sown at 16-18°C in spring, semi-ripe cuttings in summer, layering in spring.
