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Description
Russelia Tetraptera, also known as the Florida Firecracker plant, is a small shrub that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. This plant is native to Florida, the Caribbean, and Central America. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive red tubular flowers that bloom throughout the year. The plant can grow up to 4-6 feet in height and 4-6 feet in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Russelia |
Appearance
Russelia Tetraptera has a thin stem with small, narrow green leaves that are no longer than 1 inch. The flowers are bright red, tubular, and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The plant also produces small, black fruit that are about 1/4 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Russelia Tetraptera is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It is best grown in well-draining soil, and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, and can be grown in hardiness zones 8-11. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Common Pests & Diseases
Russelia Tetraptera is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be attacked by spider mites and aphids. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and well-watered. If necessary, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
Habitat
Russelia Tetraptera is native to Florida, the Caribbean, and Central America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and coastal areas. In the wild, the plant is often found growing in sandy soil and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Russelia Tetraptera tolerate drought?
A: No, Russelia Tetraptera requires regular watering to keep the soil moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize Russelia Tetraptera?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Russelia Tetraptera toxic to pets?
A: No, Russelia Tetraptera is not toxic to pets.
Q: How tall can Russelia Tetraptera grow?
A: Russelia Tetraptera can grow up to 4-6 feet in height and 4-6 feet in width.
Related Plants
- Russelia Equisetiformis
- Russelia Sarmentosa
- Russelia Juncea
References
- “Russelia tetraptera.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 Aug. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282290&isprofile=0&basic=russelia>.
- “Florida Firecracker Plant (Russelia tetraptera).” Florida Native Plant Society. Accessed 15 Aug. 2021. <https://www.fnps.org/plants/plant/russelia-tetraptera>.
- “Russelia tetraptera – Florida Firecracker.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 15 Aug. 2021. <https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn-and-garden/florida-friendly-plants/florida-friendly-plants-database/russelia-tetraptera-florida-firecracker/>.
