Tree
Powder Puff
Calliandra haematocephala
Varieties We Carry
DwarfCalliandra haematocephalaPinkCalliandra haematocephala
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$14.95
15 galFrom$250.00
25 galFrom$595.00
30 galFrom$295.00
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun, Part Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size8-15 feet × 8-12 feet
About Powder Puff
Powder Puff (Calliandra haematocephala) is a tropical large shrub or small tree native to Bolivia, renowned for its spectacular, spherical flower heads composed entirely of long, silky crimson stamens that give the appearance of a powder puff. The bipinnately compound leaves are coppery-bronze when new, maturing to deep green. Widely grown in South Florida and tropical gardens for its bold, long-season floral display that attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Starting at $14.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
- Flower Color
- Red, Pink
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Bloom season. Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Plant in full sun for best flowering; tolerates light part shade but bloom production declines. In NE Florida sandy soils, full sun also promotes the fastest establishment.
Water
Water regularly until established; once established, Powder Puff is drought-tolerant and needs only occasional supplemental irrigation during extended dry spells. Avoid waterlogged soils.
Soil & Fertilizer
Thrives in NE Florida sandy, well-drained soils; no special soil amendment needed. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 8-8-8) in spring and summer to encourage lush growth and flowering.
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Common questions
Is Powder Puff a good plant for St. Augustine?
Powder Puff is a tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with medium salt tolerance, reaching 8-15 feet × 8-12 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.