FIRECRACKER PLANT

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. The name Russelia honours 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."

Russelia equisetiformis is a multi-branching plant with 1.2–1.5 m long arching branches.[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. It is a very popular nectar plant for hummingbirds and butterflies.

It is cultivated as an ornamental plant, for use planted in temperate climate gardens, and in window boxes, pots, and hanging planters. 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. In colder climates it can overwinter as a houseplant in bright locations.

This post is part of the Our World Tuesday meme,
and also part of the Ruby Tuesday meme,
and also part of the Wordless Wednesday meme.