Kingdom:
Phylum:
Angiosperms
Order:
Fabales
Family:
Species:
laevis
ID:
165671

Status:
valid

Authors:
Rose

Source:
ildis

Year:
1899

Citation Micro:
Contr. U.S. Natl. Herb.5: 194 (1899)

WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000165000



Common Names

  • Fairy Duster
  • Desert Poppy
  • Mesquite


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Synonyms

  • Anneslia laevis (Rose) Britton & Rose [valid]

Description

Calliandra laevis (also called Smooth Powderpuff, among many other common names) is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 8 meters in height. It is native to Central and South America and is found in tropical and subtropical habitats.

Uses & Benefits

Calliandra laevis is used as an ornamental plant, as a windbreak, and as a source of nectar for bees and other pollinators. It is also used for soil stabilization and erosion control.

Flower, Seeds and Seedlings

The flower of Calliandra laevis is a bright pink to red color with five petals. The seed is a small, black, oval-shaped seed. The seedlings are small and have a single stem with two small leaves.

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Cultivation and Propagation

Calliandra laevis is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub that can reach up to 3 m in height. It can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining, sandy soil mix and kept moist. Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood and rooted in a moist, well-draining soil mix. The plant prefers full sun and regular watering.

Where to Find Calliandra laevis

Calliandra laevis is native to Mexico and Central America. It is found in tropical and subtropical climates, in dry and wet forests, and in disturbed habitats. It is also cultivated as an ornamental plant.

Calliandra laevis FAQ

What is the scientific name of Calliandra laevis?

Calliandra laevis

What is the common name of Calliandra laevis?

Smooth Powderpuff

What is the natural habitat of Calliandra laevis?

Tropical and subtropical dry forests

Species in the Calliandra genus

Calliandra paniculata, Calliandra aeschynomenoides, Calliandra angustifolia, Calliandra belizensis, Calliandra biflora, Calliandra bijuga, Calliandra blanchetii, Calliandra bombycina, Calliandra brenesii, Calliandra brevicaulis, Calliandra californica, Calliandra calycina, Calliandra carcerea, Calliandra chilensis, Calliandra crassipes, Calliandra depauperata, Calliandra dysantha, Calliandra enervis, Calliandra fasciculata, Calliandra foliolosa, Calliandra fuscipila, Calliandra glomerulata, Calliandra grandifolia, Calliandra hirsuticaulis, Calliandra hirtiflora, Calliandra juzepczukii, Calliandra laevis, Calliandra leptopoda, Calliandra longipinna, Calliandra luetzelburgii, Calliandra macrocalyx, Calliandra medellinensis, Calliandra molinae, Calliandra palmeri, Calliandra parvifolia, Calliandra peninsularis, Calliandra pilgeriana, Calliandra pittieri, Calliandra purdiei, Calliandra quetzal, Calliandra rhodocephala, Calliandra rigida, Calliandra rubescens, Calliandra seleri, Calliandra sessilis, Calliandra sincorana, Calliandra spinosa, Calliandra subspicata, Calliandra tolimensis, Calliandra trinervia,

Species in the Fabaceae family