Category: Plants

Firecracker Flower

Crossandra infundibuliformis

Family: Acanthaceae (Acanthus family)
Origin: Native to southern India and Sri Lanka; cultivated widely in tropical and subtropical regions
Growth type: Compact, bushy, evergreen perennial flowering shrub

TZS 6,000.00 per


Out of Stock

 

🌞 Location & Light Requirements:

Light: Prefers bright filtered light to partial sun; tolerates full sun with consistent moisture

Location: Ideal for patio gardens, borders, shaded beds, or indoor containers

Use: Great for mass planting, edging, understory beds, or as a potted accent

 

🌱 Soil & Growing Medium:

Soil: Rich, well-drained loam or peat-based mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

Ensure good drainage — dislikes heavy, soggy soils

 

💧 Water Requirements:

Moderate to high — prefers consistently moist soil

Watering: Water regularly during dry spells, especially in full sun; avoid allowing soil to dry out completely

Reduce watering slightly in winter if grown indoors

 

🌸 Flowering & Special Traits:

Flowers: Bright orange to apricot funnel-shaped blooms arranged in spikes; also available in salmon, yellow, and pink cultivars

Blooming season: Nearly year-round in warm, humid climates; most prolific in spring and summer

Foliage: Glossy, deep green lance-shaped leaves with slight undulation

Fragrance: Flowers are lightly fragrant; foliage has a mild scent when crushed

Propagation: Easily from stem cuttings or by division in warm, moist conditions

 

✂️ Maintenance & Pruning:

Low to moderate maintenance

Pruning: Pinch or trim regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushiness

Remove faded flowers to prolong blooming

Can be pruned back lightly after heavy blooming periods

 

🛠️ Care Tips for Tropical Gardeners:

Prefers warm, humid conditions and shelter from cold winds

Ideal for dappled light under taller plants or trees

Fertilize every 4–6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth

Protect from frost — best treated as a tender perennial in cooler zones

Can be grown indoors in bright light with humidity trays or misting

 

🔎 Notable Features:

Reliable, long-blooming plant for shady or partially sunny tropical beds

Attracts butterflies and other pollinators

Compact and neat — excellent for edging or mixed container displays

Non-toxic and generally safe around pets and children

Known for flowering even in lower light — rare among tropical bloomers