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Calliandra surinamensis
Calliandra surinamensis
Calliandra surinamensis
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Calliandra surinamensis
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Rosids
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Subfamily: Caesalpinioideae
Clade: Mimosoid clade
Genus: Calliandra
Species:
C. surinamensis
Binomial name
Calliandra surinamensis
Synonyms[2]
  • Acacia fasciculata (Willd.) Poir.
  • Anneslia fasciculata (Willd.) Kleinhoonte
  • Calliandra angustidens Britton & Killip
  • Calliandra tenuiflora Benth.
  • Feuilleea fasciculata Kuntze
  • Inga fasciculata Willd.
Fruit

Calliandra surinamensis is a low branching evergreen tropical shrub that is named after Suriname, a country in northern South America. The plant usually has complexly branched multiple trunks and grows to a height of about 5 metres, although many sources suggest that it only attains a height of 3 metres. Left unpruned it grows long thin branches that eventually droop down onto the ground. The leaves close and droop from dusk until morning when they once again reopen. Calliandra surinamensis is said to contain lectins which are toxic to cancer cells, although more research is needed. Calliandra surinamensis contains three important compounds: myrectin which contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, lupeol which contains anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, and ferulic acid which contains antimicrobial properties.

Description

[edit]

Leaves

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The leaves are bipinnate. Each pair of leaflets, or pinnae, are in turn divided into about six pairs of leaflets, pinnules.

In Mounts Botanical Garden, Florida

Flowers

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The flowers present as globose heads with small green petals and calyx with up to a 100 stamens more or less united into a tube. The stamens are long, hairlike, colourful and protrude well beyond the petals. C. surinamensis flowers all year round with definite more prolific periods. The flowers are short lived and sticky and combined with their quantity give this plant a reputation for making a mess especially on vehicles parked under it.

Stamens

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The numerous colourful stamens are white towards the base and pink towards the top. It is the stamens & anthers that give the flower the appearance of a pink powder puff.

Fruit

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The fruit is a 4 centimetres (1.5 in) long pod´

Ecology

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The shrub's year round nectar and pollen attracts wildlife such as lorikeets and fruit bats.

Common names

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Pink powder puff, Pompon De Marin, Surinam powderpuff, Surinamese stickpea

[edit]
  • Small green petals and calyx.
    Small green petals and calyx.
  • Petalized stamens.
    Petalized stamens.
  • Inflorescence.
    Inflorescence.
  • Bipinnate leaves.
    Bipinnate leaves.

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Calliandra surinamensis

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Calliandra surinamensis is an or small in the family , native to northern , characterized by its low-branching habit, bipinnate leaves with multiple pairs of oblong leaflets, and showy, powderpuff-like flower heads featuring numerous long, fluffy stamens that are typically pink or reddish at the tips and white at the base. Belonging to the genus Calliandra—a name derived from Greek words meaning "beautiful stamens"—this species was first described by George Bentham in 1844 and is distinguished by its flattened brown pods measuring 4.5–12 cm long, each containing 5–7 brown seeds. It thrives in wet tropical biomes, often in open savannas, disturbed moist forests, brush-woodlands, and along rocky riverbanks or rapids islands, at elevations ranging from 5 to 1440 m. Native primarily to the Guianas, southern Venezuela, the central and lower Amazon basin of Brazil, and extending westward to the eastern Cordillera and northern Antioquia in Colombia, as well as Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, it has been introduced to various regions including parts of Africa, Asia, the Pacific, the Caribbean, Central America, and Australasia, where it is sometimes cultivated. Widely valued for its ornamental qualities due to its fast growth, spreading habit, and vibrant winter-to-spring blooms, C. surinamensis is commonly planted in tropical and subtropical gardens, parks, and landscapes, preferring full sun or semi-shade and well-drained, moist soils. It also holds ethnobotanical significance, with traditional uses in folk for treating ailments such as coughs, wounds, , and infections, supported by phytochemical studies identifying bioactive compounds like flavonol glycosides and with potential antibacterial and antibiofilm properties.

Taxonomy and nomenclature

Classification

Calliandra surinamensis is classified within the kingdom Plantae, phylum Tracheophyta, class Magnoliopsida, order Fabales, family Fabaceae, genus Calliandra, and species surinamensis. Within the Fabaceae, it belongs to the subfamily Caesalpinioideae and the mimosoid clade. Placement in the family is justified by characteristic traits, including bipinnate compound leaves, nitrogen-fixing root nodules that enable symbiotic relationships with rhizobial , and indehiscent or dehiscent pod-like fruits containing multiple seeds. The Calliandra is distinguished by its inflorescences featuring numerous elongated stamens that form dense, fluffy, powder-puff-like heads, often brightly colored, which aid in attraction. The species was first described by the British botanist in 1844, based on specimens from . The genus encompasses approximately 140 species, predominantly neotropical shrubs or small trees adapted to tropical environments.

Etymology

The genus name is derived from the Greek words kallos, meaning "beauty," and anēr (genitive andrós), meaning "man" or "male," in reference to the attractive stamens of the flowers. The species epithet surinamensis indicates origin from , a country in northern formerly known as Dutch Guiana, which served as the type locality for the species. Calliandra surinamensis was formally described and named by the British botanist in 1844, based on specimens collected in by F. W. Hostmann.

Synonyms and common names

The basionym for Calliandra surinamensis is the original description by in 1844, establishing it as the accepted name with stable nomenclatural status in current botanical databases. Synonyms include Anneslia fasciculata (Willd.) Kleinhoonte, Calliandra angustidens Britton & Killip, Calliandra tenuiflora Benth., Feuilllea fasciculata Kuntze, Inga fasciculata Willd., and fasciculata (Willd.) Poir., reflecting historical reclassifications within the family. Common names vary regionally and often highlight the plant's origin or floral structure. In English-speaking regions, it is known as pink powderpuff, Surinam powderpuff, powder puff plant, or Surinamese stickpea. In the French Caribbean, it is called pompon de marin. In , local names include canastilla and carbonero rojo. These names evoke the fluffy, pom-pom-like clusters of stamens in the flowers or the species' native range in Surinam.

Description

Habit and growth

Calliandra surinamensis is a low-branching, multi-trunked or small characterized by long, arching branches that form a symmetrical canopy, often round or vase-shaped with open density. It can be trained into a standard form or small , producing a spreading suitable for patios or container growth. The current-year twigs are medium to thin in thickness, colored brown, green, or gray, contributing to the plant's fine texture. In typical conditions, the plant reaches a mature height and spread of 3–6 m (10–20 ft), though it may attain up to 12 m in height with optimal care. The canopy width generally matches the height, creating a balanced, sprawling form. Calliandra surinamensis exhibits a fast growth rate, particularly in tropical climates and sandy soils with full sun exposure. As a species, it persists for multiple years in cultivation, regenerating from the base after damage such as freezes in marginal zones. The bark is thin, smooth, and not particularly showy, making it susceptible to mechanical damage.

Leaves

The leaves of Calliandra surinamensis are alternate and bipinnately , featuring 1 (sometimes 2–3) pair of pinnae per leaf. Each pinna bears 4–25 pairs of small, oblong to rhombic-oblong pinnules that measure 7.5–25 mm in length, with entire margins and palmate-pinnate venation. Young pinnules emerge silky-hairy and glossy in color, maturing to a dark metallic green on the upper surface while remaining green underneath, contributing to the plant's fine-textured foliage. This species maintains foliage in tropical environments, though it can experience partial leaf drop during extended dry periods or environmental stress.

Flowers

The flowers of Calliandra surinamensis are arranged in showy, globose capitula measuring 3–5 cm in diameter, borne terminally or in the axils of leaves on peduncles 0.7–4.5 cm long. Each capitulum consists of 8–21 sessile flowers, with a receptacle 1.5–3.5 mm across and persistent bracts 0.5–2.3 mm long. Individual flowers feature a small, to yellowish calyx, 1.8–3.2 mm long with obtuse or acute teeth 0.15–1 mm, and a similarly diminutive corolla of greenish-white or reddish petals united into a tube 5.4–10.5 mm long, with lobes 0.8–2.4 mm. The defining characteristic is the androecium, comprising numerous stamens (12–26 per flower) fused at the base into a white tube 7.5–17.5 mm long, with free filaments exserted 2.5–5 cm overall—white proximally and fading to pink or reddish tips—creating the signature powderpuff appearance across the . Flowering occurs year-round in tropical climates, with peaks during the warm, , and each persists for 1–2 weeks. The flowers produce abundant , briefly attracting such as hummingbirds and .

Fruit and seeds

The fruit of Calliandra surinamensis is a linear-oblong pod, flattened and thick-margined, measuring 4.5–12 cm in length and 7–14 mm in width, woody and turning dark brown to blackish upon maturation. Initially green, the pod turns brown upon maturation and splits along both sutures through explosive dehiscence, propelling seeds for short-distance dispersal. Each pod typically contains 4–8 seeds arranged in a single row. The seeds are small, approximately 4–6 mm in diameter, brown in color, and enclosed in a hard, impermeable coat that promotes longevity but requires to enhance . The seeds exhibit orthodox storage behavior, remaining viable for several years when dried and stored under cool, low-humidity conditions, making them suitable for long-term conservation and .

Distribution and habitat

Native range

Calliandra surinamensis is native to northern , with its range encompassing countries such as , , , , , northern , , , and . This distribution is primarily confined to the wet tropical lowlands of the region, where the species occurs in open places in savannas, brush-woodlands, disturbed moist forests, and along rocky riverbanks and rapids islands. The plant thrives in diverse habitats including savannas, woodlands, shrublands, and along riverbanks and creeks, often on rocky islands near or waterfalls. It is commonly found in and disturbed areas, at elevations ranging from 5 to 1440 meters, preferring well-drained, acidic soils in these environments. As a of the , C. surinamensis requires a with annual rainfall exceeding 1500 mm and average temperatures between 20°C and 30°C to support its growth in the wild. These conditions align with the humid, equatorial patterns of its native range, facilitating its occurrence in moist, lowland ecosystems.

Introduced range

Calliandra surinamensis, native to northern , has been widely introduced to tropical and subtropical regions around the world primarily through the trade. It is cultivated in (e.g., , , , ), the (including Leeward and Windward Islands, Trinidad-Tobago), in the United States, parts of (such as , , , , , , , , , , and ), (including , , , and ), and Pacific islands (e.g., , , , ). The species was first introduced to regions outside its native range in the , with records indicating its establishment in during that period as a garden ornamental. It has since escaped cultivation in several warm climates, becoming naturalized in areas such as the Moreton district of southeastern , , and various including Kaua'i, O'ahu, Lāna'i, , and Hawai'i, where it occurs in disturbed dry to mesic habitats. Although C. surinamensis can occasionally behave as a in disturbed sites, it is not considered a major , with low risk assessments in Pacific regions highlighting its limited ecological impact. It is commonly found in botanical gardens, landscapes, and as a across its introduced range, valued for its attractive pink and white flowers.

Ecology

Pollination and reproduction

Calliandra surinamensis is primarily pollinated by insects, including bees and butterflies, which are attracted to the nectar and pollen of its powderpuff-like flowers. Hummingbirds also visit the blooms, contributing to pollination in its native and introduced ranges. In tropical environments, flowering occurs profusely year-round, enabling continuous and the potential for multiple generations annually through high flower production. Following and fertilization, mature pods dehisce elastically, dispersing seeds from the parent plant. Additional dispersal occurs via water and in dumped garden waste. This dispersal strategy enhances by distributing seeds across varied distances and habitats.

Ecological interactions

Calliandra surinamensis, as a member of the family, forms symbiotic associations with rhizobial bacteria in its root nodules, facilitating biological that enriches surrounding soils with , particularly in nutrient-poor tropical environments. This symbiosis involves such as , reflecting the plant's adaptability across biogeographical ranges in . The process enhances , supporting associated plant communities in native habitats like savannas and forest edges. The plant supports diverse wildlife through its floral and extrafloral resources. Its abundant pink powder-puff flowers provide nectar and pollen for nectar-feeding birds, including hummingbirds and sunbirds, as well as bats and insects such as bees. Extrafloral nectaries on the leaf pinnae attract ants, which in turn defend the plant against herbivores by patrolling and removing pests, establishing a mutualistic relationship that benefits both the plant and ant colonies. In ecosystems, C. surinamensis contributes to habitat provision through its dense, low-branching growth habit, which offers shelter for small animals and insects in tropical understories. Its root system and nitrogen-fixing ability aid in soil stabilization, making it valuable for ecological restoration efforts in eroded or degraded lands, where it helps prevent soil loss and promotes biodiversity recovery. While generally beneficial, C. surinamensis contains in its leaves that exhibit minor , potentially deterring certain herbivores and through cytotoxic effects, though this does not significantly disrupt its positive role in agroecosystems. These compounds contribute to the plant's defense without broad ecological harm.

Cultivation

Propagation methods

Calliandra surinamensis can be propagated effectively through or vegetative methods, with each approach suited to different cultivation goals. Seed propagation begins with collecting mature pods from the plant, which naturally dehisce to release . Due to the physiological in Calliandra , presowing treatments are essential to break and enhance ; untreated seldom germinate. Effective techniques include prechilling at 5°C for 3 hours, which yields the maximum and fastest rates, or soaking in hot for 24-48 hours to soften the hard seed coat. should then be sown in a well-drained, moist medium such as a peat-perlite mix, at depths of about 0.5 cm. typically occurs in 1-3 weeks under temperatures of 21-24°C (70-75°F), though optimal results are observed in warmer conditions around 25-30°C daytime with cooler nights. Vegetative propagation is faster and ensures genetic uniformity compared to seeds, making it ideal for rapid establishment. Semi-hardwood cuttings, measuring 10-15 cm in length, are taken in late spring or summer; the basal leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in a rooting hormone such as before inserting into a well-draining medium like sand or under high . Rooting generally occurs in 4-6 weeks at around 24°C (75°F). For larger specimens, air-layering involves wounding a , applying rooting hormone, and wrapping with moist sphagnum moss; roots form in 6-8 weeks, after which the layered section can be severed and potted. This method is particularly useful for mature plants, providing quicker establishment than seed-grown individuals. Propagation is best timed for the or spring in tropical climates to leverage natural humidity and warmth, promoting root development while minimizing stress. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent rot in both and cuttings, which can reduce viability. Seeds lose viability rapidly if not stored in dry conditions at cool temperatures, necessitating prompt use or proper storage in airtight containers.

Growing requirements

Calliandra surinamensis is best suited to tropical and subtropical climates, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11, where it can tolerate occasional light freezes in zone 9 by regrowing from the base but requires protection from severe frost. It performs optimally in full sun to partial shade, promoting abundant flowering and dense growth, though it is sensitive to temperatures below 5°C (41°F), necessitating shelter or indoor overwintering in cooler regions. The plant adapts to a variety of well-drained soils, including clay, , and , with a preference for slightly acidic to slightly alkaline conditions ( 6.0–7.5). It demands regular watering during the establishment phase to develop a robust , but once mature, it exhibits high and requires only supplemental during prolonged dry spells. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent in waterlogged conditions. Pruning after the flowering period helps maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead wood, while pinching new shoots enhances branching and flower production. Minimal fertilization with a balanced NPK during the active supports healthy development, particularly in nutrient-poor soils. Common pests include mites, mealybugs, and occasional caterpillars, which can be managed through horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps; the is generally pest-resistant. Stress from cold drafts or insufficient moisture can lead to leaf drop, while poor drainage exacerbates root issues; ensuring proper site preparation mitigates these problems for long-term success.

Uses

Ornamental value

Calliandra surinamensis is prized for its ornamental value due to the striking visual appeal of its powderpuff flowers, which feature clusters of long, silky stamens in and white, creating a fluffy, explosive appearance up to 3 inches across. These blooms appear profusely year-round in warm climates, providing continuous color and fragrance that enhances . The plant's dense, foliage, composed of glossy, copper-toned leaflets that mature to dark green, offers a lush backdrop that complements the floral display. In , C. surinamensis serves as an excellent choice for hedges, screens, and borders, where its compact growth habit—reaching 12-15 feet tall and wide—allows for easy to maintain shape and density. It functions well as a specimen or focal point in yards, patios, or entryways, and its adaptability to containers makes it suitable for small urban gardens or deck accents. The shrub's fast growth and further support its use in creating privacy or anchoring garden beds in tropical settings. Additionally, the flowers attract , hummingbirds, and bees, adding dynamic interest to ornamental plantings. While no major cultivars of C. surinamensis are widely recognized, named selections such as 'Dixie Pink' and 'Sinjen' may vary slightly in flower color intensity, density, or growth habit, with the standard form featuring the characteristic pink stamens tipped in white. This variability allows for subtle customization in ornamental schemes without deviating from the species' core appeal. The plant's popularity stems from its reliable performance in tropical and subtropical urban landscapes, where it is commonly planted in parks, gardens, and along streets for vibrant color and support. In regions like and , it is a favored choice for enhancing while providing low-maintenance beauty.

Practical and medicinal applications

Calliandra surinamensis, a member of the family, contributes to soil improvement through its nitrogen-fixing capabilities, enhancing fertility in tropical systems. As a leguminous , it forms symbiotic relationships with , fixing atmospheric and making it available for associated crops, which supports sustainable farming practices in humid . The plant is employed for , particularly when planted as hedges or on slopes, where its dense growth and stabilize and reduce runoff in erosion-prone areas. In , it serves as a multipurpose , though its potential as is limited due to high content, which can reduce and digestibility for . In , C. surinamensis is used for treating wounds, , and , often through decoctions of leaves or stem bark. analyses have identified compounds such as myricitrin, , and in its leaves and bark, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in laboratory studies, with showing potential anti-cancer effects. Recent studies (as of 2024) have also examined the composition of its seeds, highlighting nutritional and pharmacological potential, and confirmed low of methanolic extracts at doses. Additionally, the CasuL, isolated from leaf pinnulae, demonstrates against lines like K562 and T47D cells, alongside and anti-biofilm properties. While these applications hold promise, clinical evidence remains limited, with most findings from and ; C. surinamensis is not considered a major crop for medicinal or practical purposes. Caution is advised regarding , as like CasuL may interfere with if consumed in large quantities.

References

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