Stickpea (Calliandra houstoniana, Contr. U.S. Natl. Herb. 23: 386 (1922))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: (Mill.) Standl.

Bibliography: Contr. U.S. Natl. Herb. 23: 386 (1922)

Year: 1922

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Calliandra

Vegetable: False

Observations: Mexico to C. America

Description

The Stickpea, scientifically known as Calliandra houstoniana, is a remarkable plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This species, which was first described by Mill. and later classified by Standl., has a fascinating distribution range that stretches from Mexico to Central America.

Native to these regions, the Stickpea thrives in a variety of habitats, showcasing its adaptability and resilience. This robust plant is often recognized for its ornamental appeal, owing to its vibrant, fluffy flowers that typically bloom in shades of red, pink, or white. These striking inflorescences not only enhance the visual appeal but also attract a wide array of pollinators, playing a crucial role in the local ecosystems.

The publication Contr. U.S. Natl. Herb. 23: 386 (1922) provides an in-depth account of Calliandra houstoniana, shedding light on its botanical characteristics and significance. As a member of the Fabaceae family, the Stickpea shares a lineage with other important legumes, known for their ability to enrich soil fertility through nitrogen fixation.

Adapted to thrive in various environmental conditions across Mexico and Central America, Calliandra houstoniana stands out for its ecological versatility. Whether growing in tropical forests or semi-arid regions, this plant contributes significantly to its surroundings, supporting both biodiversity and soil health.

In summary, the Stickpea (Calliandra houstoniana) is a noteworthy species within the Fabaceae family, celebrated for its beautiful flowers, ecological importance, and wide distribution from Mexico to Central America. This plant not only enriches the landscapes it inhabits but also plays a pivotal role in supporting the local flora and fauna.

Common Names

En: Stickpea, Calliandra

Synonyms

• Anneslia houstoniana ((Mill.) Britton & Rose)
• Mimosa houstoniana (Mill.)

Distribution

• Belize (native)
• Costa Rica (native)
• El Salvador (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Honduras (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• Nicaragua (native)
• Panamá (native)
• Bangladesh (introduced)
• Bolivia (introduced)
• Dominican Republic (introduced)
• Hawaii (introduced)
• India (introduced)
• Jawa (introduced)
• Kenya (introduced)
• Myanmar (introduced)
• Pakistan (introduced)
• Windward Is. (introduced)
• Zimbabwe (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 10, 2022 by Marc Horisberger (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 10, 2022 by Marc Horisberger (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 27, 2022 by Pascal DUPUIS (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 17, 2019 by Wolfgang Leopoldinger (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:42191-2)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2982067)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Calliandra houstoniana (Mill.) Standl.)

Specifications

Growth