Calliandra eriophylla, commonly known as the fairy duster or false mesquite, is a species of flowering shrub in the legume family, Fabaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, typically found in arid and semi-arid regions such as deserts and scrublands.

This plant is characterized by its small, finely divided, silvery-gray leaves, which give it a delicate and airy appearance. Calliandra eriophylla produces clusters of bright pink to red, powder-puff-like flowers, which bloom profusely during the spring and intermittently throughout the year, particularly after periods of rainfall. These striking flowers attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Calliandra eriophylla is well adapted to drought conditions and thrives in sandy or gravelly soils with good drainage. It is often used in xeriscaping, native plant gardens, and desert landscaping projects, where it adds color and texture while requiring minimal water once established.

In addition to its ornamental value, Calliandra eriophylla has cultural significance among indigenous communities in its native range, where it has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes and as a source of food for wildlife.

 

Growing Instructions for the Fairy Duster

 

The seeds have a hard seed coat that has to be treated, or scarified, in order for water to enter the seeds so that they can sprout. 1. Scarify the seeds by nicking or sanding the seed coat. The seeds can be sanded with sandpaper, a nail file or an emery board. 2. Soak the seed in water for several hours. 3. The seeds like well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. 4. Put the mixture in a pot with drainage holes in the base. 5. Water the mixture so that it is moist but not wet. 6. Put the seeds on the soil. 7. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. 8. Water the seeds and keep the soil moist but not wet. 9. Place the pots in an area with warm temperatures in full sun. 9. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.