Crossandra infundibuliformis aka Firecracker Flower

Taxonomy

Crossandra infundibuliformis, commonly known as firecracker flower, is a species of flowering plant in the family Acanthaceae, native to southern India and Sri Lanka. It is best known for its narrow, oblong leaves and showy peach or coral flowers. It is most often found in south Indian region Malenadu and Kerala. When planted outdoors, crossandra is known to attract butterflies, while in temperate regions it is cultivated as a houseplant. With adequate amounts of light, warm indoor air temperatures, and high humidity, crossandra is a moderate to fast-growing plant, and should bloom in about seven months. Its common name is derived from its characteristic seed pods, which are found after the flower has dried up and have the tendency to "explode" when near high humidity or rain.

Common names

Firecracker Flower, Firecracker Plant

How to care for Firecracker Flower

Difficulty

Firecracker Flower requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Firecracker Flower should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

Firecracker Flower requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Firecracker Flower will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.


More info:
Wikipedia