How to Grow Crossandra

Crossandra

Crossandra infundibuliformis

flower

Crossandra is a tropical evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant, intricate flower clusters that resemble coral or flame-like spikes in shades of orange, red, pink, or yellow. Native to India and Sri Lanka, it's popular as a houseplant and in warm climates for its long blooming season and lush foliage. The compact growth habit and showy flowers make it ideal for indoor cultivation or tropical gardens.

Looking for a specific variety?

Crossandra infundibuliformis 'Orange' Crossandra infundibuliformis 'Salmon' Crossandra infundibuliformis 'Red' Crossandra infundibuliformis 'Pink' Crossandra infundibuliformis 'Dwarf' Crossandra nilotica

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Bright, indirect light preferred; 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily for best flowering. Tolerates partial shade but blooms more prolifically with brighter conditions.

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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly in winter. Prefers high humidity; mist regularly or place on a pebble tray with water.

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Spacing: 12 inches

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Days to maturity: 120-150 days to first bloom

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Planting depth: Plant transplants at same depth as nursery pot; seeds 1/8 inch deep

Soil

Type: Well-draining, fertile loamy soil with organic matter

pH: 6.0-7.0

Amendments:

Compost or well-rotted manure Perlite or sand for drainage Peat moss to retain moisture while maintaining drainage

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 10-11; grown as a houseplant or annual in cooler climates

10a 10b 11a 11b

Growth Stages

Seedling

3-4 weeks

Tiny plants with first true leaves emerging; delicate and tender with minimal root system

Keep soil consistently moist and warm (70-75°F). Provide bright indirect light. Protect from drafts and temperature fluctuations.

Vegetative

6-8 weeks

Plant develops multiple stems and deeper green foliage; compact bushy growth with increasing leaf production

Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushiness. Maintain consistent moisture and humidity. Feed with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.

Budding

2-3 weeks

Flower buds appear at stem tips; distinctive sculptured buds visible before opening

Maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F). Increase humidity levels. Continue regular watering without overwatering. Do not move plant frequently.

Flowering

4-12 weeks (intermittent throughout year with proper care)

Intricate flowers open in spiky clusters; vibrant colors with distinctive coral-like or salmon appearance

Remove faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Maintain consistent warmth and humidity. Continue regular fertilizing at half-strength.

Mature/Established

Ongoing

Full-sized shrub with continuous or seasonal flowering; dense foliage and multiple bloom clusters

Prune to maintain shape and size, especially in spring. Feed monthly during growing season. Reduce watering and feeding in winter dormancy.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Caladium Impatiens Begonia Fittonia Anthurium Peperomia

Avoid planting near:

Cold-sensitive plants in exposed locations Plants preferring dry conditions Drought-tolerant xerophytes

Common Pests

Mist regularly to increase humidity; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; isolate affected plants
Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; ensure good air circulation
Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with neem oil; isolate plant to prevent spread
Scrape off manually; treat with horticultural oil or neem oil; monitor closely for reinfestation
Improve drainage; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; repot in fresh, sterile soil if severe

Uses

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Indoor houseplant

Household

Crossandra is an excellent tropical houseplant that adds vibrant color and lush greenery to indoor spaces. Its compact size and long flowering period make it perfect for windowsills, shelves, or as part of a tropical plant collection. [source]

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Cut flower arrangements

Craft

The distinctive spiky flower clusters make Crossandra an attractive addition to tropical flower arrangements and floral designs. The flowers are long-lasting and add unique texture and color to bouquets. [source]

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Pollinator attraction

Wildlife

Crossandra flowers attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees with their nectar-rich blooms, making them valuable for supporting pollinators in tropical gardens and conservatories. [source]

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Traditional medicine

Medicinal

In Ayurvedic and traditional Indian medicine, Crossandra is used to support skin health and respiratory function, though scientific evidence is limited. Seeds and leaves are used in traditional preparations. [source]

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Tropical garden ornamental

Household

In frost-free climates, Crossandra serves as a stunning landscape shrub, providing year-round color and structure to tropical and subtropical gardens with minimal maintenance. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Crossandra is an ornamental flower plant; harvest blooms by cutting stems just below flower clusters when flowers are fully open. Cut flowers last 5-7 days in a vase with fresh water. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.

Fun Facts

🌱 Crossandra's flower name derives from Greek words 'cross' (fringe) and 'andron' (anther), referring to the fringed appearance of the flower's internal structures.
🌱 The plant is sometimes called 'Firecracker Flower' due to its vibrant, explosive-looking blooms that resemble bursting fireworks.
🌱 Crossandra produces unique flattened seed pods that eventually split open and eject seeds with a forceful mechanism, a dispersal strategy called 'ballistic' seed dispersal.

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