Crossandra nilotica

Firecracker Plant

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Common Name:

Firecracker Plant

Plant Type:

Flower color:

Foliage color:

Green

Sun (From 0 to 5):

2

Water (From 0 to 5):

2

Maximum temperature:

40°C

Minimum temperature:

15°C

Maximum height:

60 cm

Maximum width:

45 cm

Firecracker Plant (Crossandra nilotica) - Description

Crossandra nilotica is a species in the genus Crossandra. Crossandra has lush lance-shaped leaves and flower heads of bright tubular flowers.

Firecracker Plant (Crossandra nilotica) - Blooming

To encourage bushiness, pinch off young growing stems that are still somewhat herbaceous.

Firecracker Plant (Crossandra nilotica) - Growth

Does well in heat, but only if water is available. If the climate is not suitable, these plants do well as interior plants. Provide sufficient light if planting in containers indoors. Provide moderate to high humidity.In tropical areas, they grow well as borders or bedding plants, but be warned: they can take over a garden plot.

Firecracker Plant (Crossandra nilotica) - Planting

Seeds should be sown in early spring when temperatures average 60°F (15°C).Cuttings can be rooted in early spring as well. Providing bottom heat will promote vigorous root development.

Firecracker Plant (Crossandra nilotica) - Pest

Prone to both stem and root rots. Aphids, whiteflies and thrips can be troublesome.

Firecracker Plant (Crossandra nilotica) - Interesting facts

The Firecracker Flower (C. infundibuliformis and sometimes C. nilotica) was given its common name because of its method of seed dispersal. The fruits will dry out on the plant. When the fruits are re-introduced to water, the seeds inside the dry fruits will "explode" out. The seeds can be flung out of the fruits at quite a distance (some would say as far as 12'). This is a good mechanism for seed dispersal as the seeds need moisture to properly germinate. When moisture is introduced to the fruit, the seeds are thrown out in an environment that is wet and primed for propagation.