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!