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HouseplantsConservatory Greenhouse

Crossandra infundibuliformis

firecracker flower

An erect evergreen sub-shrub with lance-shaped leaves and yellow or orange-red flowers 3cm across in a dense cone-like spike, borne from spring to autumn

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Orange Red Green
Summer Orange Red Green
Autumn Orange Red Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1A
Botanical details
Family
Acanthaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Crossandra are evergreen perennials or shrubs with paired or whorled lance-shaped leaves and cone-like terminal flower spikes with prominent bracts and salver-shaped flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
S India, Sri Lanka

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow outdoors in well-drained soil in a very warm frost-free area. Grow under glass in peat-free compost in full light from autumn to spring and filtered light in summer. Pinch out growing points when young to encourage bushy growth

Propagation

Propagate by seed and semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Sub-tropical
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

Pruning group 8

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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