Description

General aspect and origins - Russelia equisetiformis is also known as the coral plant, firecracker plant or fountain plant. It is a shrub which is native to Mexico. It has slender stems and a few and small leaves. It bears many tubular red flowers, which explains its common names.
Leaves - Leaves are decidious, small to tiny, being .4-1 in (1-2.5 cm) long. They are opposite and oval to lanceolate.
Flowers - The red tubular flowers appear from late spring to early fall in temperate climates. They are about 1 in (2.5 cm) long and are grouped in clusters.

Culture

Russelia equisetiformis is an interesting shrub with attractive flowers. It can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9b and warmer, as it can withstand cold temperatures down to about 28°F (-2°C). There are a few named varieties, including:

• 'Aureus' - with yellow-cream flowers


• 'Lemon Falls' - with light yellow flowers


• 'Tangerine Falls' - with orange flowers


• var. alba - with white flowers


• 'Yellow Gold' - with pale yellow flowers

Soil - This plant likes light, well-drained and slightly acidic soils.

Propagation

This plant can be propagated by seeds (in winter or in spring), by cuttings (with herbaceous stems or semi-ripe wood) or by air-layers.