rossandra infundibuliformis, Crossandra undulifolia Orange
Family: Acanthaceae
Tropic Flame
Origin: India and Malaya
Beautiful small shrub, can be used as a ground cover. Bright orange flowers year round are very showy. Crossandras are tropical, evergreen, shrubby plants with oval, deep green leaves, about 2 inches long and compact spikes of lilac, red or yellow, funnel-shaped flowers with prominent bracts. Their height ranges from 6 inches to 3 feet, depending on the variety. Minimum winter temperature of 55 degrees. Old Crossandras can be grown on for several years to form large plants, but they are usually started from seeds or cuttings every year. Repotting should be done in February or March. The main shoots are shortened and sprayed often. When the new shoots form, they are transferred to slightly larger pots. Crossandra infundibuliformis need part shade to full sun. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer from March to October. Trim the plants often to keep a desired form. Another spelling: crossandra undulaefolia.
