Russelia equisetiformis
Russelia equisetiformis | |
---|---|
| |
Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
(unranked): | Angiosperms |
(unranked): | Eudicots |
(unranked): | Asterids |
Order: | Lamiales |
Family: | Plantaginaceae |
Genus: | Russelia |
Species: | R. equisetiformis |
Binomial name | |
Russelia equisetiformis Schlecht. & Cham. | |
Synonyms | |
|
Russelia equisetiformis, commonly known as Firecracker plant, Coral plant, Coral fountain, Coralblow and Fountain plant, is a weeping subshrub in the Plantaginaceae family.
The plant is native to Mexico and Guatemala.[1]
The name Russelia honors the Scottish naturalist Alexander Russell (1715-1768), given to the genus by the Dutch scientist Baron Nikolaus von Jacquin (1727-1817). The species name reference to this plants resemblance to horse tail rushes, and the Latin term equisetiformis means "like Equisetum."
Description
![](../I/m/Russelia_equisetiformis02.jpg)
![](../I/m/Russelia-2.jpg)
Russelia equisetiformis is a multi-branching plant with 4–5 feet (1.2–1.5 m) long arching branches.[1] The overall graceful form of the subshrub is a fountainesque mound.
The stems and tiny oval leaves are bright green.
It flowers profusely with small decumbent red flowers. It can bloom year round in tropical and subtropical climates.[1]
It is a very popular nectar plant for hummingbirds and butterflies.
![](../I/m/Russelia-02.jpg)
Cultivation
Russelia equisetiformis is culivated as an ornamental plant, for use planted in temperate climate gardens, and in window boxes, pots, and hanging planters.[1]
There are also cultivars with ivory white or pink flowers. Flowering is best in a minimum of half day sun, though the plant grows well in deep shade to bright sun.
The plant can be espaliered on a trellis for vertical display or a balcony—terrace screen (in pot). It can withstand temperatures down to -6.6°C (20°F). In colder climates it can overwinter as a houseplant in bright locations.[1]
References
External links
![]() |
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Russelia equisetiformis. |
- Floridata: Russelia equisetiformis (Firecracker plant)
- University of Florida; IFAS Extension: — Russelia equisetiformis
- Flowers of India: Firecracker Plant (Russelia equisetiformis) images