Firecracker Flower
Crossandra infundibuliformis
Sanjana
About this plant
Crossandra infundibuliformis, commonly known as the Firecracker Flower, is a tropical shrub admired for its bright orange tubular flowers and glossy green leaves. It blooms profusely, adding vibrant color to gardens and indoor spaces. The plant is often used as an ornamental shrub in warm climates and is popular in floral arrangements and traditional decorations in South Asia.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Crossandra
- Family
- Acanthaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Lamiales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- India, Sri Lanka
- Distribution
- Native to southern India and Sri Lanka; widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, Southeast-facing, South-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18–28 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10–12
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting soil mix
Watering. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Reduce watering in cooler months. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Fertilizing. Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early autumn). Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce flowering.
Crossandra infundibuliformis is a moderately easy plant to care for. It prefers warm temperatures and indirect sunlight. Overwatering can cause root rot, so allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages blooming.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–autumn
Bright orange tubular flowers, glossy dark green leaves, bushy form
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets; safe to keep around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Crossandra infundibuliformis may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals due to its sap. People allergic to plant sap should handle it with care. It does not produce airborne pollen that typically causes allergies.
Common problems
Common problems include root rot from overwatering, leaf yellowing due to poor drainage or low humidity, and occasional pest issues like aphids or spider mites.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and foliage. Also used in traditional floral decorations and garlands.
Notes
Prune regularly after flowering to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Repot every 2-3 years to refresh soil and provide space for roots. Sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).