Crossandra Plant
- The Crossandra plant, often called the “firecracker flower,” is a tropical evergreen subshrub prized for its vibrant, showy blooms. Native to tropical regions of Africa and parts of South Asia, this member of the Acanthaceae family is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens, as a border plant, or as a houseplant in cooler climates.The Crossandra plant typically grows as an erect, herbaceous plant, reaching heights of 1 to 3 feet (0.3 to 1 meter). It has a somewhat shrubby and spreading habit.
- Leaves: The foliage is a key feature, with glossy, dark green leaves that have a slightly wavy margin. They are oblong-ovate or lanceolate in shape and are arranged in a “false whorl” of four leaves, giving the plant a lush, full appearance.
- Flowers: The most striking characteristic of the Crossandra plant is its fan-shaped flowers. They have 3 to 5 asymmetrical, overlapping petals and are typically found in brilliant shades of orange, salmon-orange, apricot, or coral, though yellow and red cultivars also exist. The flowers are arranged in dense, four-sided spikes and bloom continuously throughout the year in warm climates.
- Fruit and Seeds: The common name “firecracker flower” comes from the oblong capsule fruit. When ripe, these seed pods can “explode” when touched, scattering the four round seeds.
- Cultivation: Crossandra plant thrives in warm, humid climates and prefers light, organically rich, well-drained soils. It grows best in part shade to dappled sunlight, as direct sun can scorch the leaves. In cooler regions, it is often grown in containers and brought indoors for the winter. The plant can be propagated by both seeds and stem cuttings, with cuttings often taken in the spring.
Its continuous blooms and low-maintenance nature make Crossandra plant a popular choice for adding a tropical touch to any garden or indoor space.
# Buy Crossandra Plant Online. Plants online, All India Shipping, Online Plant Nursery, Best Price Online. Buy Now!
There are no reviews yet.