Firecracker Plant
dissotis rotundifolia
Also known as: ["Firecracker Plant","African Firecracker"]
Overview
A tropical shrub native to Africa, known for its vibrant red flowers that resemble firecrackers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Melastomataceae |
| Genus: | Dissotis |
| Botanical Name: | Dissotis rotundifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid environment
- 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, fertile potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning as needed; major pruning in early 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 morning sun with afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; avoid intense midday sun; place in filtered light indoors or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for indoor light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers stable temperatures year-round.
Avoid drafty areas; use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for humidity in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut just above leaf nodes; thin crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth; shape plant; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean pruners, scissors, or sharp knife.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider); ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh soil to refresh nutrients.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in cold; scorching or stunted growth in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate from drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; 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-toxicDissotis rotundifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicDissotis rotundifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicDissotis rotundifolia is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Dissotis rotundifolia?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the plant does not sit in water to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Dissotis rotundifolia require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but protection from intense afternoon sun is recommended.
Q: Is Dissotis rotundifolia pet-friendly?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Melastomataceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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