Firespike
odontonema cuspidatum
Also known as: ["Odontonema strictum","Odontonema nitens"]
Overview
A tropical shrub known for its vibrant red tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Genus: | Odontonema |
| Botanical Name: | Odontonema cuspidatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor pot in bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates
- 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: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
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 new plants to sunlight gradually; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and potting soil; avoid heavy garden soil; check drainage regularly.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; protect from frost and cold drafts.
Monitor room temperature; use a humidifier in dry environments; protect from sudden temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least one node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
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 or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity around cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if needed; avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently during hot spells; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOdontonema cuspidatum is not known to be toxic to cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicOdontonema cuspidatum is not known to be toxic to dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicOdontonema cuspidatum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Firespike attract hummingbirds?
A: Yes, its vibrant red flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds.
Q: Is Odontonema cuspidatum toxic to pets?
A: There is no confirmed information on its toxicity to pets; it is advised to keep pets away from unknown plants.
Q: How often should Firespike be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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