Red Justicia (Justicia coccinea): The Scarlet Beauty Your Garden Needs

If you’re looking for an exotic, low-maintenance plant that blooms in vivid colors and attracts pollinators like hummingbirds, the Red Justicia (Justicia coccinea) might be just what your garden is missing. This tropical perennial brings bold visual appeal, long-lasting flowers, and a touch of the rainforest to any outdoor space.

What Is Red Justicia?

Also known as Scarlet Justicia or Firecracker Plant, Justicia coccinea is a member of the Acanthaceae family. It’s native to tropical regions of Central and South America and is popular for its striking tubular red flowers that cluster on upright stems. These blooms can appear from spring to fall—or even year-round in warmer climates.

Its deep green, velvety foliage forms a lush base for the flowers, making it a favorite in tropical landscaping and pollinator gardens. Whether planted directly in the ground or grown in large pots, this plant thrives with minimal effort.

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Main Features

• Vibrant flowers in a brilliant red hue that attract hummingbirds and butterflies

• Grows to about 2 to 5 feet tall, depending on conditions

• Prefers partial sun to light shade (especially afternoon shade in hot areas)

• Enjoys regular watering, but dislikes soggy soil

• Ideal for tropical to subtropical climates, USDA zones 9-11

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Why Choose Red Justicia for Your Garden?

1. Pollinator Magnet
Its tubular flowers are rich in nectar, making it a natural favorite for hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Adding this plant boosts biodiversity in your yard.

2. Tropical Aesthetic
With its upright habit and exotic blooms, Red Justicia adds instant color and visual interest to borders, containers, and garden beds.

3. Easy Care
This plant is forgiving and adaptable. A little pruning, consistent watering, and occasional feeding are all it needs to flourish.

4. Long Blooming Season
In the right conditions, it can bloom for many months—adding beauty when other plants are dormant.

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How to Grow Justicia coccinea Successfully

Location
Choose a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade, or use light shade cloth in full-sun areas. This helps prevent leaf scorching and encourages consistent blooming.

Soil and Fertilizer
Use rich, well-draining soil with compost or organic matter. Monthly feeding with a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) supports vigorous growth and flowering.

Watering
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but never waterlogged. In dry seasons, increase the frequency, especially if the plant is in a container.

Pruning
After the flowering cycle, lightly prune the stems to encourage bushier growth and new blooms. Removing spent flowers also extends the blooming period.

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Propagation Tip

Red Justicia is easy to propagate using cuttings. Take a healthy 6-inch stem, strip the lower leaves, and place it in water or directly into moist soil. Roots typically form in just a couple of weeks.

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Fun Facts and Extra Uses

• Also called “Firecracker Plant” for its bold, fire-like color

• Widely used in tropical landscape designs for its vertical shape and visual impact

• Great for urban gardens and balconies with good light

• Helps create a pollinator-friendly ecosystem in your backyard

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Things to Watch For

• Protect from cold weather or frost—cover during cold nights or move indoors if potted

• Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids or mealybugs

• Don’t overwater—good drainage is essential

• If grown indoors, place it near a bright window but away from direct midday sun

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Final Thoughts

The Red Justicia is a bold, beautiful plant that brings tropical charm to any garden. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, its easy care and stunning color make it a joy to grow. Plus, its ability to attract wildlife and its long flowering period make it a garden favorite.

And to keep your Red Justicia (and other garden plants) looking their best, having the right tools makes all the difference.

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Take the Strain Off Your Hands with These Gardening Shears

German-made pruning shears, perfect for those with arthritis or limited hand strength. Cut stems up to 1 inch thick with ease. The ergonomic handle and easy-squeeze grip reduce strain and make pruning three times easier. Great for maintaining Red Justicia and other ornamental plants with precision.