Firecracker

“Russelia equisetiformis” The tubular flowers, most common in red, resemble a fountain – like burst of fireworks that make this plant showy and appealing. If ever there was a plant that epitomized the “right plant, right place” rule, this is it. Decide if you really have the space because a firecracker will not be tamed to stay small and compact. It looks terrible if you try to keep it that way. Firecrackers need plenty of room for their signature arching form. But that’s not to say you can’t control one… just plan ahead so its size works in the area you want to plant. This is not a good choice for the neat freak who wants a formal, manicured look. Moderate to fast growers to 3 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide.