Calliandra tergemina var. emarginata, commonly known as Dwarf Powderpuff, is an evergreen shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions, including open woodlands and forest edges in Central America, Mexico, and northern South America. It typically grows to a height of 7-10 feet (2.1-3 meters) and a width of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters). This plant is characterized by its fine-textured, bipinnate leaves and showy, spherical clusters of pink flowers with long, protruding stamens that resemble powder puffs. These flowers bloom prolifically in the spring, summer, and fall, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Dwarf Powderpuff is valued for its ornamental flowers and compact growth habit, making it suitable for use in tropical and subtropical gardens as a specimen plant, in mixed borders, or as informal hedges. It is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional pruning to shape. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to partial shade, consistent moisture, and well-drained soils. While it is generally pest-resistant, it can be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs. Dwarf Powderpuff is not known to be invasive but should be monitored in areas where it can grow year-round.CC BY-SA 4.0