Family: Fabaceae

Briefly deciduous shrub, growing to 3x3’ although often much smaller. When blooming, plants almost glow at sunset or sunrise (your preference of time) with their pink duster-shaped flowers. Flowers are most expected in spring but can be stimulated by warm temperatures and rain. Flowers are sometimes white, to almost fully red.

There are horticultural selections and hybrids of this plant.

Full to part sun. Can tolerate low water when established, though moderate water will produce larger plants. This plant is hardy to 10° F.

Attracts loads of butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, and other nectar-seeking insects. Quail and other birds consume the seeds. Larval food plant for ceraunus and marine blue butterfly species and Melipotis moths.

A decoction of the leaves and stems is taken as a gynecological aid after childbirth by Yavapai.

Calliandra is from Greek kallos (meaning beautiful) and andra (meaning stamen), while eriophylla is from Greek erion (meaning wool) and phyllon (meaning leaf) referring to matted white hairs that cover the plant when young.