Firecracker Flower
crossandra infundibuliformis
Also known as: ["Firecracker Plant","Kannikannan Poo"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant, tubular flowers that resemble small fireworks, blooming year-round in warm climates.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Genus: | Crossandra |
| Botanical Name: | Crossandra infundibuliformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with high humidity, or sheltered outdoor location in warm climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–32°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; protect from intense direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light; tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; move outdoors in summer for brighter light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant dry out completely; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil mix every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, stable conditions; sensitive to cold drafts and temperature fluctuations.
Avoid placing near air conditioning vents; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to retain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems; remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or damaged foliage.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, allowing water to penetrate the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop due to cold stress; wilting or scorching due to excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or death; prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) is harmful.
Solution: Keep plants away from drafty windows or doors; provide a heat source if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); cover outdoor plants in cold nights.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; rapid water loss may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to fall); reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCrossandra infundibuliformis 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 non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCrossandra infundibuliformis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCrossandra infundibuliformis 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 non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Crossandra infundibuliformis?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the plant does not sit in water to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Crossandra infundibuliformis require direct sunlight?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade; avoid prolonged direct sunlight.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Crossandra turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies; adjust watering and check soil conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light; tolera |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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