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Description
Calliandra Pittieri, commonly known as the Pink Powder Puff, is a tropical flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Costa Rica and can be found in the rainforests of the country. The plant typically grows up to 10 feet tall and has a spread of 6 feet. It is widely recognized for its stunning pink flowers that bloom all year round. The plant is considered a small tree or shrub, and it attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Calliandra |
Appearance
The Calliandra Pittieri is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 10 feet tall and has a spread of 6 feet. It has a dense growth habit and a rounded shape. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 5-6 pairs of leaflets that are 1-2 inches long. The flowers are pink and have a fluffy, powder puff-like appearance. The flowers bloom all year round and are about 1 inch in diameter. The plant also produces small seed pods that are about 2 inches long.
Care Guide
To care for the Calliandra Pittieri, follow these guidelines:
Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Calliandra Pittieri is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by pruning affected branches and using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Calliandra Pittieri is native to Costa Rica and can be found in the rainforests of the country. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Calliandra Pittieri be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location.
Q: Does the Calliandra Pittieri require pruning?
A: Yes, the plant benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote new growth.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Calliandra Pittieri?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season.
Q: Is the Calliandra Pittieri toxic to pets?
A: The plant is not toxic to pets but may cause mild stomach upset if ingested.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Calliandra Pittieri:
- Calliandra haematocephala
- Calliandra surinamensis
- Calliandra tweedii
- Calliandra californica
References
- “Calliandra pittieri Pink Powder Puff.” Floridata. https://floridata.com/Plants/Fabaceae/Calliandra%20pittieri/570
- “Calliandra pittieri (Pink Powder Puff).” Home Guides. https://homeguides.sfgate.com/calliandra-pittieri-pink-powder-puff-65562.html
- “Calliandra pittieri.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c209
