Free Crossandra Infundibuliformis Plants

A fairly compact, brightly coloured plant that can remain in flower from spring right through to the end ofsummer. The tubular, orange-red flowers are borne on erect flower spikes. Remove dead flowers to prolong the flowering period. The Crossandra requires a constant reasonably high temperature and will not tolerate any temperature fluctuation. For this reason, coupled with its preference for only a moderate light, it is best sited within the body of a room. As well as being suitable for use on its own, the plant grows and can be displayed well in association with many other plants.

Plant type : Flowering plant with compact, upright habit
Season of interest : Spring and summer
Size : 30-60cm (12—24in)
Flower : Lobed, 2.5-3cm (1 —1 Jin), orange-red produced from erect spike
Leaf : Pointed oval, 5-7.5cm (2—3in), green, shiny
Temperature : 18-22°C (64—72°F)
Aspect/Light : Moderate, away from high light intensities in summer
Humidity : High
Watering : Evenly moisten compost in spring and summer, allowing to dry a little before re-watering; keep on drier side in autumn and winter
Feeding : Once every two to three weeks with flowering plant fertilizer in spring and summer
Propagation : Plant 5-7.5cm (2—3in) tip cuttings in seed and cutting compost at 21 -22°C (70-72'F)
Potting : Peat-based houseplant potting compost
Problems : Aphid, red spider mite, leaf loss with low temperature
Availability : Commonly available in spring and summer
Uses indoors : Useful flowering plant for table decoration in lounge or dining room; also good for kitchen or bathroom