Contents
Description
Russelia Sarmentosa, also known as Coral Plant, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family of Plantaginaceae. It is a perennial evergreen plant that is native to Mexico and Central America. This plant is popular for its beautiful red flowers and delicate branches that can reach up to 3 feet long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Russelia |
Appearance
The Russelia Sarmentosa has thin, wiry, and delicate branches that can grow up to 3 feet long. It has small, dark green leaves that are about 0.5 inches long. The plant produces tubular-shaped, bright red flowers that are about 1 inch long. These flowers bloom in clusters that can reach up to 8 inches long. The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet in height and 3-4 feet in width. Russelia Sarmentosa is a fast-growing plant that produces a lot of flowers and can be trained to grow in various shapes and forms.
Care Guide
Water: Russelia Sarmentosa requires moderate watering. Water the plant once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite to create a well-draining soil mix.
Sunlight: Russelia Sarmentosa prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer flowers in these conditions.
Hardiness Zones: Russelia Sarmentosa is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Russelia Sarmentosa is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also develop root rot if overwatered, so it is important to provide well-draining soil and not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Russelia Sarmentosa is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in open woodlands, savannas, and rocky hillsides. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some drought but prefers moderate watering during the growing season.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Russelia Sarmentosa a good plant for hanging baskets?
A: Yes, Russelia Sarmentosa is an excellent plant for hanging baskets due to its delicate branches and cascading growth habit.
Q: Can Russelia Sarmentosa be grown indoors?
A: Russelia Sarmentosa is best grown outdoors in full sun to partial shade. It can be grown indoors in bright, indirect light, but it may not flower as profusely as it would outdoors.
Q: How often should I fertilize Russelia Sarmentosa?
A: Fertilize Russelia Sarmentosa once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Russelia Sarmentosa?
A: Russelia Sarmentosa can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a bright, indirect light until they root.
Related Plants
- Russelia Equisetiformis
- Russelia Juncea
- Russelia Mexicana
- Russelia Glabra
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/russelia-plant/russelia-plant-care-tips.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281102
- https://www.thespruce.com/russelia-plant-care-guide-4691149
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/russelia-sarmentosa
