Crossandra, also known as “firecracker flower,” is a versatile plant that can be grown outdoors as either an annual or a perennial, depending on the climate of your region. In warmer areas, such as tropical and subtropical regions, crossandra can be grown as a perennial, meaning it will come back year after year. However, in cooler climates, where temperatures drop below freezing, crossandra is typically grown as an annual.
As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had the pleasure of growing crossandra in both annual and perennial settings. Let me share my experiences and insights with you.
1. Annual Growth:
In regions with cold winters, where temperatures regularly dip below freezing, crossandra is often grown as an annual. This means that it completes its life cycle within a single year. In spring, you can sow crossandra seeds or purchase young plants from a nursery. Plant them in well-draining soil and provide them with regular watering and partial shade. Crossandra thrives in warm and humid conditions.
During the growing season, crossandra produces vibrant flowers in shades of orange, pink, and red. The flowers are tubular and resemble small firecrackers, hence the common name “firecracker flower.” Enjoy their beauty and provide them with the care they need, such as regular fertilization and deadheading of spent blooms. As the temperatures start to drop in autumn, crossandra plants will eventually decline and die, completing their life cycle as an annual.
2. Perennial Growth:
In regions with mild winters and frost-free conditions, crossandra can be grown as a perennial. If you live in a tropical or subtropical climate, you’re in luck! Crossandra can be a long-lasting addition to your garden. It will come back year after year, providing you with its vibrant blooms and lush foliage.
To grow crossandra as a perennial, follow similar planting and care instructions as you would for annual growth. However, keep in mind that crossandra is sensitive to cold temperatures. During winter, protect the plants from frost by covering them with a frost cloth or bringing them indoors. Crossandra prefers temperatures above 50°F (10°C) and may suffer damage or even die if exposed to prolonged cold spells.
If you choose to grow crossandra as a perennial, you’ll have the joy of witnessing its beauty and vibrant flowers season after season. However, it’s important to monitor weather conditions and provide the necessary protection if temperatures drop unexpectedly.
Whether crossandra comes back every year depends on the climate of your region. In colder areas, it is typically grown as an annual, while in warmer regions, it can be enjoyed as a perennial. Consider your climate and gardening goals when deciding how to grow this lovely firecracker flower.
