Russelia equisetiformis

RHS Plant Profile
coral plant
coral plant RHS

Other common names

fountain plant, firecracker plant

Synonyms

Russelia juncea

Award of Garden Merit
Conservatory Greenhouse

A broom-like evergreen shrub with arching stems to 1m or more, bearing small leaves which soon fall; flowers 3cm long, tubular, scarlet, in pendent clusters, opening from spring to autumn

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1C

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Plantaginaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Russellia can be evergreen or deciduous shrubs, with arching stems bearing usually scale-like leaves and tubular red, pink or white flowers in axillary clusters
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Mexico

How to Grow

Cultivation

In containers under glass grow in a peat-free, loam-based compost with added grit or sharp sand in full or filtered light. Water moderately when in growth and apply balanced liquid feed monthly. Water sparingly in winter. May be placed outdoors in summer in a sunny sheltered spot

Propagation

Divide rooted layers in spring. Take softwood cuttings all year round

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Patio and container plants

Pruning

Pruning group 9

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free