Firebush - Hamelia patens - Native Butterfly Nectar Plant
Firebush
Hamelia patens
Also known as: Firecracker Shrub, Mexican Firebush, Scarlet Bush, Hummingbird Bush
Zones: 8-11
Plant Type: Perennial
Height: Zones 8-9: shrub up to 5 ft.
zones 10-11: small tree up to 15 ft.
Plant Spacing: 3 ft.
Light Requirements: Partial shady to full sun
Water Requirements: Medium, drought tolerant once established
Soil Requirements: Does well in a variety of soil types
Firebush is a native butterfly nectar plant found in Southern Florida, Central America, and South America. It will grow as a perennial in areas that freeze, and as a small tree in frost-free zones. The leaves are green, gaining a purple tinge as the year progresses. Flowers are reddish-orange and attract hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and other insects to nectar. Plant Firebush in your garden and enjoy watching the visitors that come to your yard this year!