How to identify Firecracker plant (Russelia equisetiformis)

How to identify Firecracker plant (Russelia equisetiformis)

Firecracker plant, also known as Fountain plant, Coralblow

Firecracker plant is characterized by multiple evergreen branches reaching lengths of 4 to 5 feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters) with a natural arching form that creates a mound-like shape. The stems are four-angled and adorned with scale-like, ovate leaflets, both displaying a vibrant green hue that may turn reddish in full sun. Flowering predominantly in spring and summer, the plant produces cascades of bright red, tubular flowers at the tips of its branches, although it can flower sporadically throughout the year in favorable conditions. The small, conspicuous flowers contribute to its ornamental appeal. Optimal growth occurs in sunlit areas, but firecracker plant is also capable of surviving in deep shade.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Shrub

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Firecracker plant

Bright red, tubular flowers in clusters resemble firecrackers.

Scale-like ovate leaflets with vibrant green color and reddish tint in sunlight.

Small, needle-like leaves reduced to scale-like ovate leaflets.

Slender green stems that grow erect and bend over creating a weeping effect.

Dry, brown capsules with beaked appearance and small, light brown oval seeds.

Detailed Traits of Firecracker plant

Leaf Features

The leaves of firecracker plant are small, needle-like, and bright green, measuring approximately 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) long. These leaves are primarily reduced to small scale-like leaflets, which are ovate to elliptic in shape, ranging from 8.5-15 mm (0.33-0.59 inches) in length and 6-9 mm (0.24-0.35 inches) in width. They are medium green in color, providing a distinct texture with their compact, needle-like appearance.

Leaf Arrangement

Whorled

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Flower Features

The flowers of firecracker plant are bright red and tubular, each measuring about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length. They are typically found in drooping terminal cymes and form clusters of 1 to 3 flowers at the tips of branches, resembling firecrackers. Blooming extensively from late spring to frost, these slender flowers can continue blooming indoors during winter if the plant is kept as a houseplant. The striking red hue and tubular shape are distinctive identification features.

Inflorescence Type

Cymes

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Stem Features

The stem of firecracker plant is slender and green, measuring around 3-4 mm (0.12-0.16 inches) in thickness. It displays a somewhat rough texture. Branches initially grow erect but soon bend over, creating a cascading effect. These stems can grow to approximately 2 feet (60 cm) in length. The stem’s unique weeping form, coupled with its fine, delicate appearance, is a distinctive identifying feature.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of firecracker plant is a dry, brown capsule that is oval or globose in shape, with dimensions of approximately 3 - 6 mm (0.12 - 0.24 inches) in width. It features a distinctive beaked appearance due to the persistent style at its tip. The seeds contained within are notably small, oval, and light brown in color, contributing to the characteristic look of the fruit. These key aspects are essential for correct identification.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Key Facts About Firecracker plant

Attributes of Firecracker plant

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Color

Red

Fruit Color

Brown

Stem Color

Green

Red

Leaf type

Deciduous

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Scientific Classification of Firecracker plant

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Plantain

Genus

Russelia

Species

Firecracker plant (Russelia equisetiformis)

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Distribution Map of Firecracker plant

Russelia equisetiformis, known as firecracker plant, is native to Mexico and certain regions of Central America. Firecracker plant has spread far beyond its native range, now found in various parts of Asia, Africa, the Pacific Islands, South America, and even in some European locations where firecracker plant thrives in an introduced capacity. It is also cultivated in many regions for its ornamental value. While firecracker plant has established a presence in certain areas outside its native habitat, it is sometimes thought to be potentially invasive, particularly in Fiji and Cuba, where it may have an impact on local ecosystems.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

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A Comprehensive Guide to Firecracker plant How to Grow and Care for Firecracker plant