Photo of Calliandra californica flower by Stan Shebs

Photo by Stan Shebs

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Calliandra californica

Also Known As

  • Baja Fairy Duster
  • Red Fairy Duster

Plant type

shrub

size

  • H: 4'-6'
  • W: 3'-5'

planting zones

  • 9a-11

More Options

Calliandra californica plant details

Calliandra californica is a broadleaf semi-evergreen shrub with blue and green foliage. In fall, spring, summer and winter red flowers emerge. Grows well with sun and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in average and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Calliandra californica

Plant type: shrub
Plant family: fabaceae
Foliage: semi-evergreen blue and green
Mature size: 3 FT - 5 FT - wide, 4 FT - 6 FT - tall
Flowers: red blooms in fall, spring, summer and winter
Uses: container plant, long-blooming, xeric

GROWING CONDITIONS for Calliandra californica

USDA Zones: 9a - 11
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

From the Baja peninsula in Mexico comes this little Powder Puff plant that grows well in containers and flowers most of the year under high light. Its bluish-green lacy foliage is a lovely backdrop for its mesmerizing red blooms. An upright grower, it can be maintained as a small shrub in a 6-8" pot. This popular xeriscaping plant needs full sun and is a hummingbird attractor.
A dwarf very-very free blooming powderpuff bush producing it's bright orange-red blooms seemingly throughout the year. One of the hardiest Calliandras. Attracts hummingbirds. It is reported that fairies love them, too:) The Baja Fairy Duster is considered to be one of the hardiest of the Powderpuffs and is reported to withstand temperatures in the mid teens. Needs good drainage and average moisture for the best performance.

Gardening facts about Calliandra californica plant

How to Grow Calliandra californica

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun
  • Water Needs

    • occasional - drought tolerant
  • Soil Needs

    • average
    • well-drained

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
    • blue
  • Flower Color

    • red
  • Flower Season

    • spring
    • summer
    • fall
    • winter
  • Foliage Season

    • semi-evergreen
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