Care of the shrub Russelia equisetiformis or Coral plant |
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The genus Russelia, family Scrophulariaceae, includes 70 species of flowering plants native to the American continent. Some species are: Russelia equisetiformis, Russelia sarmentosa, Russelia alata, Russelia multiflora. Common names: Coral plant, Fountainbush, Firecracker plant, Fountain plant, Coralblow. This species is native to Mexico. They are bushes with elegant hanging branches that reach 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) in height. The leaves are acute scaly bracts 2 mm (0.08") long. The abundant red flowers are pendant and tube-shaped. They bloom in spring and summer. These easy-to-grow shrubs are used in rockery, on walls and in hanging pots. They are ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. Russelia equisetiformis needs a very sunny exposure. They do not resist frost. The soil must be light and contain abundant organic matter (manure). Transplant every 2 years if grown in a pot. Water frequently so that the soil does not dry out completely. They resist several days of drought. Prune excessively long branches and those that have dried up after flowering. They are quite resistant plants to pests and diseases. They are propagated by cuttings from the shoots at the base during the spring. |
Images of the shrub Russelia equisetiformis or Coral plant |
 Russelia equisetiformis  Russelia equisetiformis  Russelia equisetiformis  Russelia equisetiformis |