About
Russelia equisetiformis, the coral plant, is a broom-like evergreen shrub with arching stems to 1 m or more bearing small, soon-falling leaves. Tubular, scarlet flowers 3 cm long hang in pendent clusters from spring to autumn � one of the most free-flowering and ornamental of all frost-tender shrubs for a heated conservatory or frost-free garden.
About the genus
Russelia are evergreen or deciduous shrubs with arching stems bearing usually scale-like leaves and tubular, red, pink or white flowers in axillary clusters. Popular and free-flowering plants for heated conservatories and frost-free gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toMexico
Care notes
CultivationIn containers under glass grow in a peat-free, loam-based compost with added grit or sharp sand in full or filtered light. Water moderately when in growth and apply balanced liquid feed monthly. Water sparingly in winter. May be placed outdoors in summer in a sunny sheltered spot
PruningPruning group 9
PropagationDivide rooted layers in spring. Take softwood cuttings all year round
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free