Calliandra calothyrsus

A (relatively) small fast growing tree for warmer areas reaching 15-20’ quickly & under favorable conditions, will eventually get upwards of 30’. Takes regular moisture & brief periods of drought but hates to be bogged down with heavy amounts of moisture. The leaves have the general mimosa-like appearance – bipinnate with many leaflets & they go to “sleep” at night, folding against the stems of the tree. The flowers are inconspicuous, but the stamens – woah nelly! Bright red showiness! The spikes bloom over a period of months, but single flowers last only a day & bloom thru the night, as they are bat pollinated. Will bloom in Spring & rebloom thru Summer with adequate moisture. This Calliandra dislikes temperatures below 30 degrees F, but is said to have great Fall color. Probably not a great idea for the coast, but you inland folks should try this one out!