Russelia equisetiformis
coral plant
A broom-like evergreen shrub with arching stems to 1m or more, bearing small leaves which soon fall; flowers 3cm long, tubular, scarlet, in pendent clusters, opening from spring to autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red | Green | ||
| Autumn | Red | Green | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1CBotanical details
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Russellia can be evergreen or deciduous shrubs, with arching stems bearing usually scale-like leaves and tubular red, pink or white flowers in axillary clusters
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mexico
How to grow
Cultivation
In containers under glass grow in a peat-free, loam-based compost with added grit or sharp sand in full or filtered light. Water moderately when in growth and apply balanced liquid feed monthly. Water sparingly in winter. May be placed outdoors in summer in a sunny sheltered spot
Propagation
Divide rooted layers in spring. Take softwood cuttings all year round
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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