Firecracker Plant
heterotis rotundifolia
Also known as: ["Mecranium rotundifolium","Firecracker Plant"]
Overview
A tropical shrub with vibrant red tubular flowers and rounded leaves, native to West Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Melastomataceae |
| Genus: | Heterotis |
| Botanical Name: | Heterotis rotundifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning in spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct sun; place near east-facing windows for optimal indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes drafts or extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster roots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth and encourage bushier form; maintain shape and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove old soil; trim roots if needed; use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prevents root-bound issues.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning leaf edges; slow growth or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or AC vents.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or stunted growth due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer); cease in fall–winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHeterotis rotundifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicHeterotis rotundifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicHeterotis rotundifolia is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Heterotis rotundifolia?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but protection from intense afternoon sun is recommended.
Q: Is Heterotis rotundifolia pet-friendly?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Melastomataceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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