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Firecracker Plant (Russelia equisetiformis), Shrub
Shrub

Firecracker Plant

Russelia equisetiformis

Varieties We Bring In

StandardRusselia equisetiformis
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
3 galFrom$14.95

Last received Mar 9, 2026.

We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.

Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.

LightFull Sun
WaterLow to Moderate
Salt toleranceModerate
Mature size3-5 feet × 6-12 feet

Pet toxicity: Non-toxic to dogs and cats

Pet safety guide

About Firecracker Plant

Firecracker plant (Russelia equisetiformis) is a tropical shrub from Mexico with slender, weeping rush-like stems and a year-round display of small, bright red tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Its cascading habit makes it ideal for banks, containers, and retaining walls.

Plant details

Bloom Season
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Flower Color
Red
Growth Rate
Fast
Foliage
Evergreen
Soil
Sandy, Loam, Well-drained

Best planting months

Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL

Recommended months: March, April, May, September, October, November.

January, other month
February, other month
March, good window
April, good window
May, good window
June, other month
July, other month
August, other month
September, good window
October, good window
November, good window, this month
December, other month
This monthGood windowOther months

Seasonal care

Bloom season. Good planting window.

Care essentials

Light

Requires full sun or very bright light to bloom prolifically; plants in shade produce sparse flowers. In NE Florida, site in full sun for best hummingbird attraction and cascading flower display.

Water

Water regularly until established, then drought-tolerant. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; good drainage is essential as firecracker plant does not tolerate waterlogged roots. NE Florida's summer rains are usually sufficient for established plants.

Soil & Fertilizer

Grows in any well-drained sandy or loamy soil. Fertilize three times a year (spring, summer, fall) with a balanced controlled-release granular fertilizer. Prune hard in early spring to rejuvenate; trim spent stems anytime to encourage rebloom.

Similar needs

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Common questions

Is Firecracker Plant a good plant for St. Augustine?

Firecracker Plant is a shrub. Mature size: 3-5 feet × 6-12 feet. Light: Full Sun. Water needs: Low to Moderate. Recorded hardiness zone: 9a. Recorded salt tolerance: moderate.

What is the recorded pet toxicity for Firecracker Plant?

Non-toxic to dogs and cats

Care information verified from

Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.