Firecracker Flower

Botanical Name: Crossandra infundibuliformis

Firecracker flower makes a stunning house plant that blooms dependably from spring through fall.

Its deeply veined, glossy leaves grow in opposite pairs, reaching up to 5 in (13 cm) long.

Orange flowers are most common, but other colors include red, yellow and pink. The flowers are held upright from green tubular bracts. Even young plants are eager to bloom, sending up clusters of flowers most of the year.

In its native tropical habitat, this firecracker plant flourishes in the year-round warm temperatures and high humidity.

Origin: Southern India and Sri Lanka

Height: Up to 2 ft (60 cm)

Light: Bright light. Some direct morning sun is fine.

Water: Water thoroughly, allowing the top 1 in (2.5 cm) of soil to dry out between waterings.

Humidity: Moderate to high humidity.

Temperature: Average room temperatures 60-75°F, 16-24°C year-round.

Soil: Any good potting mix.

Fertilizer: Feed every 2 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half.

Propagation: Take 3 in (7.5 cm) stem cuttings in spring. Sow seeds in spring.