Firecracker Plant

Firecracker plant adds a punch of bright coral and a burst of fountain-like movement to the garden.

The distinct shape and growing habit allow you to be creative with landscape design.

Having it cascade over a beautiful planter near a swimming pool, spill over boulders in a rock garden, or simply grow as a shrub in a pollinator garden are just a few ideas to get you started.

Botanical name: Russelia equisetiformis

Other names: Coral blow, Coral bush, Coral fountain, Coral plant, Fountain plant, Hummingbird plant

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The most noticeable part of the Firecracker plant is the bright coral-red flower. It is tubular in form, and small, about 1 inch long. This plant enjoys long and frequent bloom periods, with numerous flowers that stay attached to the stem at the same time.

The flowers hang from long, wispy, evergreen stems. These bright green stems make the firecracker plant visually appealing even when not in bloom. The name "equisetformis" means in the form of a horsetail. Younger stems grow vertically, and then eventually arch over as it becomes longer and older.

Small, inconspicuous green leaves, which are reduced on older stems.

Small, inconspicuous egg-shaped fruits.

Once mature, the overall plant is about 3-5 feet tall and 5-6 feet wide.

The firecracker plant is one of the most heat-tolerant flowers. Great candidate for adding bright color to desert gardens.

Reliable blooms. Blooms year-round in the Coachella Valley.

Hummingbirds love this plant!

Cheery, wispy look and versatile role in the landscape. Can be planted directly in the ground where you would place ornamental grass or a tall flowering shrub, although this would require more pruning for a tidy appearance.

Add space when planting in areas with foot traffic unless planning on providing regular pruning. Spread can be 4 feet wide.

For easier maintenance and a tidier look, plant in areas where the end of the firecracker stems won't be touching the ground: border edges and over walls and fences, hanging baskets, window boxes, big containers, and urn planters.

Fast-growing, robust, and long-lived. May be pruned regularly during the growing season. We recommend only doing heavy pruning in the wintertime. It will quickly rebound in the growing season.

Firecracker plant originates from Guatemala and Mexico, in areas that enjoy warm weather year round.

The firecracker plant is great for beginning gardeners that live in warm areas.

Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile. 

Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to frost for a short period of time. Bring indoors or provide insulation during frost. If frost damage occurs, prune damaged parts for regrowth. Performs well in the heat.

Water: Moderate watering needs. Although drought-tolerant, the firecracker plant will produce more flowers and look healthier with regular water.

Sun: Full sun. Partial shade is ok in the Palm Springs area but will bloom less.

Pests: Firecracker plant has minimal pests. Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.

Signs of overwatering: Squishy texture

Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying

Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color

Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, few blooms

Propagate Firecracker plant via cuttings. Plant 3-6 inch cuttings in soil, and keep moist until roots appear.

How much does the Firecracker plant cost?

At our nursery, the Firecracker plant costs $18 for a 5-gallon container.

Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.

Is firecracker plant drought-tolerant?

Yes, mature firecracker plants are drought tolerant. However, they will produce more flowers and look healthier with regular water.

How should I prune the firecracker plant?

Provide regular pruning, especially the dead and dry parts, during the growing season to keep the plant looking vibrant. Provide heavy pruning in the wintertime. It will quickly rebound in the growing season.