Crossandra, Firecracker

Crossandra infundibuliformis Nees

Acanthaceae

Explanation of name: Generic name from Greek for fringed anthers. Specific epithet means funnel-shaped.

Natural range: India

Recognition: Upright subshrub 1.5’ tall with the flowers in erect inflorescences having overlapping bracts, the flowers strongly two-lipped, bright orange (or red or yellow). ‘Flame’ is red. ‘Florida Sunset’ is orange. ‘Florida Summer’ is yellow.

Landscape uses: Warm-weather perennial subshrub useful for filling space with a blaze of color. An important bedding plant sold in large numbers. Not forgiving of suboptimal conditions, and intolerant of cold