PLANT OF THE MONTH: PINK FAIRY DUSTER (Calliandra)

By Pam Albo

We garden in an arid desert, and the Pink Fairy Duster is a drought tolerant shrub that is perfect for desert landscaping. Plus, it loves full sun and heat. A bonus is it will add a zap of color to your garden.

Fairy Duster produces pink blossoms that look like little feather dusters from Spring through Fall. It’s native to southwest desert areas and very easy to care for. Full direct sunlight works best for Fairy Duster. It also does well with reflected heat from walls.

A medium shrub, it grows to 4’ by 4’. Feed with Osmocote granules during the blooming season to enjoy the beautiful pink blossoms almost year-round.

While the flowers may not look like it, they attract hummingbirds and butterflies.