Also known as Antigua Heath · Coral Fountain · Coralblow
Russelia equisetiformis, the firecracker plant, is a vibrant shrub known for its cascading branches adorned with bright red, tubular flowers resembling firecrackers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering, but tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during the growing season, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Trim back leggy stems to promote new shoots. Remove dead or faded flower stalks to improve appearance and redirect energy.
Heavy pruning can be done in early spring before new growth begins.
Propagate from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Select healthy, non-flowering stems, cut them to about 10-15 cm long, and remove lower leaves.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in moist potting mix or water until roots form.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend for cacti and succulents, to ensure good aeration and prevent waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Firecracker Plant (Russelia equisetiformis)
Where Firecracker Plant (Russelia equisetiformis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Russelia |
| Species | Russelia equisetiformis |
Similar in genus Russelia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
