The Pompom (Stifftia chrysantha), also known as Golden-flowered Stifftia, is a shrub or small tree from the Asteraceae family, appreciated for its dense, yellow-orange inflorescences that resemble pom-poms. These flowers, besides being ornamental, attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making the species valuable for landscaping projects aimed at biodiversity. Its prolonged flowering, attractiveness to wildlife, and hardiness in different soil types contribute to its use in gardens and squares.
The genus name Stifftia honors Austrian physician Andreas Joseph von Stifft, recognized for his contributions to medicine and science in the 18th century. The specific epithet chrysantha derives from the Greek “chrysos” (gold) and “anthos” (flower), referring to the golden color of its flowers.
Stifftia chrysantha is endemic to Brazil, occurring in the states of Bahia, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Paraná, within the Atlantic Forest and Cerrado biomes. It thrives in dense rainforests, preferably in mountainous terrain with well-drained, organically rich soils. The species is adapted to high humidity and tropical wet climates, commonly found in preserved or regenerating forest fragments.
Stifftia chrysantha is a small, woody plant, typically classified as a shrub or small tree, reaching 10 to 16 feet (3 to 5 meters) in height. Its growth is characterized by multiple trunks emerging from the base, each trunk ranging from 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 centimeters) in diameter, featuring smooth bark when young and longitudinally fissured bark at maturity. The branches are leafy at the top and subglabrous. The roots are of the taproot type, adapted to well-drained, organically rich soils.
The leaves of Stifftia chrysantha are simple, alternate, lanceolate to elliptical, with entire margins and an acute apex, measuring approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length and 1 to 2 inches (3 to 5 centimeters) in width. The leaf surface is glabrous, with a papery texture, and a deep green color. The leaves are evergreen, remaining on the plant throughout the year.
This species is hermaphroditic, featuring flowers that contain both sexes within the same structure. Flowering primarily occurs between July and September, although it may extend into other periods of the year. The inflorescences are large, round, solitary terminal capitula, about 2 inches (5 centimeters) in diameter, resembling pom-poms of orange-red coloring.
The flowers are actinomorphic, with tubular corollas and prominent stamens, without a noticeable fragrance. Pollination is carried out by hummingbirds and butterflies, attracted by the abundant nectar. The fruits are cylindrical, black cypselas, formed in the spring, containing small, light seeds with persistent pappus suitable for wind dispersal.
In landscaping, Stifftia Chrysantha can be used as a focal element or as infill, in residential gardens and urban green areas. Its exuberant bloom, vibrant color, and medium size support this use in tropical or Brazilian native gardens. The dense crown and branching from the base allow its use as an informal hedge or as part of shrubbery clusters, especially in arrangements designed to attract fauna.
The intensely colored inflorescences serve as an attractant for hummingbirds, wrens, and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity in the spaces where it is inserted and bringing great interest and dynamism to the garden. In small spaces, it adapts well to isolated flower beds or areas near walls, provided they are in locations with good sunlight. It can be combined with another brazilian native species such as Sanchezia nobilis and Hamelia patens, supporting the continuous flow of hummingbirds and other winged pollinators throughout the year.
In addition to its use in gardens, the globose and intensely colored inflorescences of Stifftia chrysantha are used in tropical floral arrangements for their exotic shape and long-lasting quality. When harvested at the beginning of blooming, they remain fresh longer, making them suitable for vibrant and structured compositions.
Stifftia chrysantha thrives best under direct sunlight but also tolerates partial shade, especially during the initial growth phase. It is adapted to tropical and subtropical climates, with ideal temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). Although it shows some tolerance to short periods of cold, it cannot withstand intense or prolonged frosts. Strong winds can damage its leaves and flowers, thus it is advisable to cultivate Stifftia Chrysantha in sheltered locations. This species is not recommended for landscaping in coastal areas, with high soil salinity or exposure to maritime conditions.
Stifftia chrysantha prefers well-drained, acidic soils (pH between 5.6 and 6.5) and rich in organic matter. The use of limestone or dolomite in soil preparation should be avoided. In pots, it is advisable to use a light substrate with good aeration and drainage. Watering should be regular, keeping the soil lightly moist, but never waterlogged. The plant is sensitive to excess water, which can cause root rot. Using rainwater or water with a low calcium concentration is preferable, especially in regions with alkaline water.
Planting of Stifftia chrysantha should be done in pits enriched with organic compost, ensuring good drainage. Monthly fertilizations with slow-release fertilizers and organic compost, supplemented with micronutrients such as iron, help maintain green and healthy foliage. The application of mulch around the base helps retain moisture and control weeds. Light pruning can be done to remove dry branches or to shape the plant, preferably after the flowering period.
Stifftia chrysantha shows good resistance to pests and diseases when grown under suitable conditions. However, in indoor environments or greenhouses, it may be susceptible to mites, particularly in low humidity conditions. Maintaining good ventilation and regularly monitoring for pests is essential. If necessary, the use of natural or specific insecticides can be employed, always with caution and following technical guidelines.
The propagation of Stifftia chrysantha is primarily done by seeds, which should be collected when ripe and sown in a light substrate, maintaining constant moisture until germination, which occurs between 3 and 6 weeks. The plant starts flowering between 1.5 and 2.5 years after germination. Recent studies also indicate the possibility of propagation through cuttings, using apical cuttings treated with indolebutyric acid (IBA) to stimulate rooting, which appears promising, although this technique is still in the experimental phase.
