Shrub
Firecracker Plant
Russelia equisetiformis
Varieties We Carry
StandardRusselia equisetiformis
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
3 galFrom$14.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 9.
LightFull Sun
WaterLow to Moderate
Mature size3-5 feet × 6-12 feet
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. Starting at $9.95.
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
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Bloom season. Retains foliage through winter.
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.
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Common questions
Is Firecracker Plant a good plant for St. Augustine?
Firecracker Plant is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with medium salt tolerance, reaching 3-5 feet × 6-12 feet.
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.