Coral Plant, Fountain Plant, Mexican Coral Plant
russelia equisetiformis
Also known as: ["Firecracker Plant","Coral Plant"]
Overview
A striking, trailing plant with slender, green stems and bright red tubular flowers that resemble fountains of coral.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus: | Russelia |
| Botanical Name: | Russelia equisetiformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor container in bright, airy space
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix such as a cactus or succulent mix with added organic matter like peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season to shape the plant.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to remove up to one-third of the plant; can be more aggressive if the plant is over
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun if moving from indoors; protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement seasonally to account for changing light angles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring after last frost.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter
pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents or cacti; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots drain freely; top-dress with mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); thrives in tropical to subtropical climates; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold winds; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in cooler months.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; take cuttings in spring or early summer for best results.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch stem cuttings just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing; avoid propagating during dormancy or extreme weather.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity (70–80%).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates, especially for woody stems.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture; use a heat mat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems; best done in early spring before new growth begins.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune in early spring; remove dead or diseased stems; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins; avoid repotting during dormancy or flowering periods.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; best when the plant outgrows its current container or soil becomes depleted.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; water deeply to encourage deep roots; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure pots have adequate drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop; prolonged exposure to frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move indoors in winter; ensure temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C); avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; high temperatures combined with dry soil can stress the plant.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for dilution ratio; fertilize during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRusselia equisetiformis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a known risk of toxicity to felines through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicRusselia equisetiformis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicRusselia equisetiformis is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Russelia equisetiformis?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Russelia equisetiformis require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
Q: Is Russelia equisetiformis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
