Crossandra Orange

Aboli (Crossandra) belongs to the Acanthaceae family and thrives across India and Sri Lanka. This evergreen semi-shrub reaches approximately 4 feet in height, earning the nickname "Fire Cracker" for the distinctive crackling sound its mature seed pods produce when exposed to water. The plant displays glossy, wavy-edged foliage and distinctive fan-shaped flowers with three to five asymmetrical petals that bloom year-round. Flowers emerge from four-sided, stalked spikes in vibrant coral-orange hues, developing from buds clustered along the upper growth regions. The Arka Ambara variety is prized for its brilliant orange blooms and reliable flowering performance, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking consistent color and botanical interest.

Environment

Crossandra enjoys the heat and high humidity. Crossandra could be cultivated in a wide range of soils. Fertile, red loamy soils with pH range of 6 to 7.5 are ideal for its cultivation

Keep the soil slightly moist with warm water in summer, reduce water during winter. Cold water triggers a state of shock causing the Crossandra plant to die.

Feed it using a liquid fertilizer for houseplants every two weeks from April to August and mist lightly when having challenges with humidity.

Landscape Use

Specimen or grouping or mass for shrub borders or foundations. Also effective as an informal hedge or low screen.