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Description
Crossandra Infundibuliformis, also known as the Firecracker Flower or Orange Marmalade, is a tropical plant native to Asia and Africa. The plant belongs to the Acanthaceae family and is loved for its vibrant orange blooms that can last for weeks. Crossandra Infundibuliformis is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and indoor spaces.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Crossandra |
Appearance
Crossandra Infundibuliformis grows up to 1 to 2 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide. The plant has oval-shaped, glossy green leaves that grow up to 5 inches long. The flowers are bright orange and tubular, with a funnel-like shape that flares out at the end. The blooms grow in clusters at the end of the stems and can last for several weeks. Crossandra Infundibuliformis is a beautiful plant that can add a pop of color to any garden or indoor space.
Care Guide
Crossandra Infundibuliformis is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate care. Here are some tips on how to care for your Firecracker Flower:
Water: Water your Crossandra Infundibuliformis regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to allow excess water to drain away.
Fertilization: Fertilize your Crossandra Infundibuliformis every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Use a high-quality potting mix if you are growing the plant in a container.
Sunlight: Crossandra Infundibuliformis prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Make sure to protect the plant from harsh midday sun, which can scorch the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Crossandra Infundibuliformis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. If you live in a colder climate, grow the plant in a container and bring it indoors during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crossandra Infundibuliformis is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but here are some common issues to watch out for:
Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the leaves. Spray the plant with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap to get rid of spider mites.
Whiteflies: These small, flying insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use a sticky trap or insecticidal soap to get rid of whiteflies.
Root Rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can kill the plant. Make sure the soil is well-draining and allow excess water to drain away.
Habitat
Crossandra Infundibuliformis is native to Asia and Africa and can be found growing in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. Crossandra Infundibuliformis can be grown in containers or in the ground and is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and indoor spaces.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Crossandra Infundibuliformis a hardy plant?
A: Yes, Crossandra Infundibuliformis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. If you live in a colder climate, grow the plant in a container and bring it indoors during the winter months.
Q: How often should I water my Crossandra Infundibuliformis?
A: Water your Crossandra Infundibuliformis regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to allow excess water to drain away.
Q: Can Crossandra Infundibuliformis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Crossandra Infundibuliformis can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is watered regularly.
Q: How tall does Crossandra Infundibuliformis grow?
A: Crossandra Infundibuliformis grows up to 1 to 2 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Crossandra Infundibuliformis:
- Crossandra Nana
- Crossandra Undersander
- Crossandra Longipes
- Crossandra Multiflora
References
- “Crossandra Infundibuliformis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285179.
- “Firecracker Flower.” Costa Farms, www.costafarms.com/plants/firecracker-flower.
- “Crossandra Infundibuliformis.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/crossandra-infundibuliformis-firecracker-flower.
