Russelia equisetiformis ~ Fountain Bush, Coral Plant, Firecracker Plant

Russelia equisetiformis has to be a lot of people's favorite if it has this many common names. The first time I saw the Firecracker Plants was on a slope in Hawaii. It seemed like the whole slope was glowing with the red flowers of this weeping plant. The stems of Russelia equisetiformis can grow to 6 feet but generally tip over and the plants don't stand much more than 3 feet tall. Fountain Bush grows best in a semi shaded location inland or full sun near the coast. Russelia equisetiformis prefers a regular source of water, but when the need arises it will hang on with only a small amount. The foliage looks much like the species namesake Equisetum. Ruselia equisetiformis has reduced leaves and mostly looks like stalks with flowers. Russelia equisetiformis is hardy into the low 20°s F.