Arizona ipomopsis (Ipomopsis arizonica)

Also known as: Arizona firecracker, Firecracker plant

Arizona ipomopsis (Ipomopsis arizonica) is a captivating perennial that features slender stems adorned with vivid red or pink trumpet-shaped flowers, which are particularly attractive to hummingbirds. This plant is native to the southwestern United States, particularly Arizona and New Mexico. It favors rocky, well-drained soils and is typically found at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 feet. Arizona ipomopsis thrives in open, sunny areas such as slopes, meadows, and forest clearings, where its finely divided, fern-like green leaves provide a delicate contrast to its bright blooms.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Arizona ipomopsis

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

Up to 60 cm (24 inches)

Spread

Approximately 30 cm (12 inches)

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

Around 2 cm (0.8 inches)

Flower Color

Bright red

Images of Arizona ipomopsis

Quickly Identify Arizona ipomopsis

To identify Ipomopsis arizonica, look for its bright red tubular flowers, finely divided leaves, and its erect growth habit. The plant usually grows in dry, rocky, or sandy soils.

Scientific Classification of Arizona ipomopsis

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Ericales

Family

Phlox

Genus

ipomopsis

Species

Arizona ipomopsis

Planting and Growing of Arizona ipomopsis

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

50-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Arizona ipomopsis?

Water Ipomopsis arizonica with about 250 ml per session, ensuring the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. The goal is to mimic the plant's native environment, where periodic, moderate rainfall occurs.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Arizona ipomopsis? ›

What should I do if my Arizona ipomopsis is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Arizona ipomopsis? ›

How to save an overwatered Arizona ipomopsis? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Arizona ipomopsis?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Ipomopsis arizonica prefers full sun exposure. Ideal lighting encourages vibrant flowering and robust growth, supporting its natural adaptation to sunny, arid environments.

What is the best lighting condition for Ipomopsis arizonica? ›

How can I ensure my plant receives ideal sunlight? ›

What benefits does ideal sunlight provide? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Arizona ipomopsis?

Ideal Temperature: 50 ~ 75℉

Ipomopsis arizonica thrives best within a temperature range of 50°F to 75°F. This range supports optimal growth and blooming, as it closely mimics the plant's native high desert environment. Maintaining consistent temperatures within this range allows the plant to perform photosynthesis efficiently and supports healthy stem and leaf development.

What Soil is Best for Arizona ipomopsis?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Ipomopsis arizonica thrives in well-drained soils as they prevent water from pooling around the roots. This reduces the risk of root rot and provides the plant with the optimal environment to absorb nutrients efficiently. The plant requires soils with moderate levels of nutrients. Excessive nutrients can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms, while too few nutrients might stifle growth. Ipomopsis arizonica can tolerate slightly to moderately acidic soils, which help in maintaining an appropriate pH balance for nutrient uptake, optimizing growth and flower production.

How to Fertilize Arizona ipomopsis?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Ipomopsis arizonica, use a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer. Apply about 1/4 cup per plant during the growing season to support its vibrant growth. Ensure not to overdo it to prevent nutrient burn.

How to Prune Arizona ipomopsis?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by removing dead, diseased, or damaged stems at the base. Next, trim back about one-third of each stem to encourage fuller growth. Always make cuts at a 45-degree angle and just above a healthy outward-facing bud to guide the direction of new growth. Pruning in spring encourages vigorous growth as the plant enters its active growth phase. A light summer trim helps maintain form and size, but avoid heavy pruning close to the blooming period to not impact flowering. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Arizona ipomopsis plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Collect seeds from mature Ipomopsis arizonica plants when the seed pods have dried. Wait for a dry, wind-free day to gather the seeds to prevent loss and ensure high viability.

Sow the seeds on the surface of the potting mix without covering them, as they require light for germination. Gently press them into the mix to ensure good contact with the soil.

Water the seeds gently using a mist to avoid displacing them. Ensure they receive plenty of light, either through natural sunlight or grow lights, for at least 12 hours a day.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Arizona ipomopsis plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

For Ipomopsis arizonica, consider repotting when you notice roots coming out of the drainage holes, or if the plant's growth has noticeably slowed down. The ideal time to repot this plant is during its active growing phase in spring or summer, ensuring that it has enough energy to recover and thrive in its new pot.

Select a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, offering just enough space for root expansion without waterlogging. Opting for a pot with ample drainage holes ensures excess water escapes, preventing root rot and allowing the soil to dry out properly between waterings, which is crucial for a healthy Ipomopsis arizonica.

A well-draining sandy or gritty soil mix mimics the plant’s natural habitat and is ideal for Ipomopsis arizonica. This type of soil ensures excellent aeration and prevents water retention, reducing the risks of root diseases and providing the roots with necessary nutrients and anchorage.