Crossandra infundibuliformis 'Nile Queen' (Red crossandra)
Botanical name: Crossandra infundibuliformis
Common name: Red crossandra
Cultivar: Nile Queen
Family: Acanthaceae
Origin: India and Malaya
USDA Zone: 10-11
Cold tolerance: 35°F
Plant form: Small
Mature height: 2-5 ft
Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.
Watering: Regular
Flower color: Red, crimson, vinous
Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Butterfly attractor: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirdsVery rare variety with bright red flowers. Crossandras are tropical, evergreen, shrubby plants with oval, deep green leaves, about 2 inches long and compact spikes of lilac, red or yellow, funnel-shaped flowers with prominent bracts. Their height ranges from 6 inches to 3 feet, depending on the variety. Old Crossandras can be grown on for several years to form large plants, but they are usually started from seeds or cuttings every year. Repotting should be done in February or March. The main shoots are shortened and sprayed often. When the new shoots form, they are transferred to slightly larger pots. Crossandra need part shade to full sun. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer from March to October. Trim the plants often to keep a desired form.




