Calliandra surinamensis (Surinam Powder Puff)

Calliandra surinamensis

Botanical name: Calliandra surinamensis

Common names: Surinam Powder Puff, Pink Powder Puff, Surinamese Stickpea, Officiers-kwast

Subfamily: Mimosoideae

Origin: Surinam

This plant is native to Surinam and has a wide range of uses from ornamental to bonsai. Calliandra surinamensis, or Surinam powder puff, is typically a large shrub growing between 5-10 ft tall. It has attractive evergreen foliage and showy pink flowers that give it an ornamental appeal to brighten up any garden. The flowers are bright pink outside, and pale pink to white inside the "powderpuff" ball shape. The foliage has bipinnate, oblong leaves that are pointed, giving it a unique, dense look.

Surinam powder puff is a fast grower and can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. It grows best in full sun or light shade, and prefers a well-drained acidic to slightly alkaline soil. After establishment, regular pruning is needed to maintain the size and shape. Regular water is also required for optimal growth, and for colder regions, it can also be grown in a pot.

Surinam powder puff is frost tolerant and able to withstand temperatures in the 30s F for a short time. It is classified as hardy in USDA Zone 9-11. Additionally, this plant also attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, making it an even more attractive addition in any garden. With the right care and conditions, this can be an excellent choice for an outdoor or container garden.