How to prune crossandra (firecracker flower)

Deadhead throughout bloom season; cut back by one-third in late winter or early spring before growth resumes. Pinch or snip spent flower spikes at their base. In late winter, cut stems back by up to one-third to a healthy node to encourage compact, bushy regrowth.

Deadheading ongoing during bloom; structural trim once a year in late winter. Crossandra benefits from regular deadheading to sustain its long blooming season, and a moderate cutback after the main flowering flush to promote fresh bushy growth. Without deadheading and occasional trimming it becomes leggy. It flowers on new growth, so cutting back rejuvenates the plant.

Pinch or snip spent flower spikes at their base. In late winter, cut stems back by up to one-third to a healthy node to encourage compact, bushy regrowth.