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Description
Choretrum Candollei, also known as the Mexican firecracker plant, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the family of Verbenaceae. It is native to Mexico and can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant has a unique characteristic of producing bright red tubular flowers that resemble firecrackers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Choretrum |
Appearance
The Mexican firecracker plant has a bushy growth habit and can reach up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width. The leaves are dark green, narrow, and glossy. The flowers are the most striking feature of this plant. They are bright red, tubular, and resemble firecrackers. The flowers bloom in clusters at the ends of the stems and attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Care Guide
To keep the Mexican firecracker plant healthy and blooming, it is important to follow these care guidelines:
Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out partially before watering again. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing during the winter months.
Soil: The Mexican firecracker plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade may reduce flowering.
Hardiness Zones: The Mexican firecracker plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11. In cooler climates, it can be grown as an annual or in containers that can be brought indoors during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mexican firecracker plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, the plant may be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
The Mexican firecracker plant is native to Mexico and can be found growing in rocky, dry areas. It is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in hot and dry conditions. This plant is often used as a border plant or in mixed shrub borders.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Mexican firecracker plant tolerate frost?
A: No, this plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I prune my Mexican firecracker plant?
A: Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Can I grow the Mexican firecracker plant in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and fertilize regularly during the growing season.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Mexican firecracker plant?
A: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing during the winter months.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Verbenaceae family include:
- Lantana
- Verbena
- Clerodendrum
- Phyla
References
- “Choretrum Candollei.” Floridata, University of South Florida, www.floridata.com/plant/11156.
- “Choretrum Candollei.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/122714/.
- “Mexican Firecracker.” Monrovia, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2034/mexican-firecracker/.
