Interesting Facts
The Firecracker Flower (C. infundibuliformis and sometimes C. nilotica) was given its common name because of its method of seed dispersal. The fruits will dry out on the plant. When the fruits are re-introduced to water, the seeds inside the dry fruits will "explode" out. The seeds can be flung out of the fruits at quite a distance (some would say as far as 12'). This is a good mechanism for seed dispersal as the seeds need moisture to properly germinate. When moisture is introduced to the fruit, the seeds are thrown out in an environment that is wet and primed for propagation. 
Firecracker Plant
(Crossandra nilotica)
Crossandra has lush lance-shaped leaves and flower heads of bright tubular flowers.
| Plant Types: | Interior Plant, Perennial, Shrub, Tropical |
| Light: | Full Sun |
| Height: | 1 foot to 2 feet |
| Width: | 1 foot 2 inches |
| Zones: | 10a to 15b |
| Bloom Color: | Orange, Salmon |
| Bloom Seasons: | Early spring, Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall, Late fall, Early winter, Mid winter, Late winter |
| Special Features: | Not North American native, Pet Friendly |
| Type of Soil Preferred: | Well-Drained |
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Plant Care
Planting:
Seeds should be sown in early spring when temperatures average 60F.
Cuttings can be rooted in early spring as well. Providing bottom heat will promote vigorous root development.
Seeds should be sown in early spring when temperatures average 60F.
Cuttings can be rooted in early spring as well. Providing bottom heat will promote vigorous root development.
Plant Growth:
Does well in heat, but only if water is available. If the climate is not suitable, these plants do well as interior plants. Provide sufficient light if planting in containers indoors. Provide moderate to high humidity.
In tropical areas, they grow well as borders or bedding plants, but be warned: they can take over a garden plot.
Does well in heat, but only if water is available. If the climate is not suitable, these plants do well as interior plants. Provide sufficient light if planting in containers indoors. Provide moderate to high humidity.
In tropical areas, they grow well as borders or bedding plants, but be warned: they can take over a garden plot.
Blooming:
To encourage bushiness, pinch off young growing stems that are still somewhat herbaceous.
To encourage bushiness, pinch off young growing stems that are still somewhat herbaceous.
Soil and Irrigation:
Water regularly until winter arrives. Through winter, little water is needed.
Water regularly until winter arrives. Through winter, little water is needed.
Fertilization:
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once per month when the plant is actively growing.
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once per month when the plant is actively growing.
Pruning:
Shoots of evergreen species should be trimmed after the flowering period. Remove dead/damaged plant parts in midspring. Plants grown indoors may require extensive pruning.
Shoots of evergreen species should be trimmed after the flowering period. Remove dead/damaged plant parts in midspring. Plants grown indoors may require extensive pruning.
Pests:
Prone to both stem and root rots. Aphids, whiteflies and thrips can be troublesome.
Prone to both stem and root rots. Aphids, whiteflies and thrips can be troublesome.