Firecracker Plant (Russelia equisetiformis)
The Firecracker Plant (Russelia equisetiformis), also known as Coral Plant, or Coral Fountain, is a cascading, fast-growing perennial known for its arching, rush-like stems and vibrant red tubular flowers. This drought-tolerant plant adds a graceful, weeping effect to garden beds, containers, and hanging baskets, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies throughout the blooming season.
Distinctive Features
Firecracker Plant is prized for its slender, arching stems covered in small, bright green leaves and clusters of red, tubular flowers that resemble tiny firecrackers. Blooming nearly year-round in warm climates, this plant is an excellent choice for adding movement and color to the landscape.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soil.
- Water: Drought-tolerant once established; water moderately.
- Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity but adapts well to drier conditions.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11 (grown as an annual or container plant in cooler climates).
Ideal Uses
- Hanging Baskets & Containers: Trails beautifully over edges for a cascading effect.
- Wildlife Gardens: Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
- Ground Cover: Forms a lush, weeping mat of foliage and flowers.
Low Maintenance Care
Firecracker Plant is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives with minimal maintenance beyond occasional watering and pruning to encourage dense growth.
- Watering: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
- Pruning: Trim back stems as needed to maintain shape and promote new blooms.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Propagation: Easily propagated from stem cuttings.
Why Choose Firecracker Plant?
With its long-lasting blooms, cascading habit, and pollinator-friendly nature, Firecracker Plant is a fantastic addition to any warm-climate garden.
- Continuous Blooms: Produces vibrant red flowers almost year-round.
- Attracts Pollinators: A magnet for hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Low Maintenance: Thrives with minimal care and occasional trimming.
- Versatile Placement: Ideal for hanging baskets, containers, and garden borders.
For those looking to add a delicate, trailing burst of red to their landscape, Firecracker Plant (Russelia equisetiformis) is an outstanding choice.