Russelia equisetiformis (Firecracker Plant)

Russelia equisetiformis is a shrub native to Mexico in the Plantaginaceae family. Its weeping branches create a mound resembling a fountain. The slender, ribbed green stems carry small leaves that often fall early. It blooms for much of the year in warm climates, producing profuse small tubular flowers, normally red but also yellow. It has been recognized with the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. Photographed in Cali, Colombia.