Hamelia patens, commonly called scarlet bush or Texas firebush, is native to Southern Florida, Mexico, Central and South America. It is also commonly known as Mexican firecracker or firecracker shrub because of the similarity of its flowers to firecrackers. Where this shrub may be grown as a perennial, it is evergreen, will rise to as much as 10-15’ tall and will bloom year-round. As an annual in the St. Louis area, it typically rises to 2-3’ tall in a growing season and blooms in summer and early fall. Tubular orange-red to red flowers appear in terminal clusters (cymes) in summer and fall. Whorls of pointed, oval, gray-green leaves (to 6” long) with pinkish veins. Leaves turn red in fall. Reddish stems and leafstalks. Flowers give way to small dark fruits. Butterflies and hummingbirds are reportedly attracted to the flowers, and birds enjoy the fruits.
Hamelia Patens Grelmsiz’ Care
Hamelia Patens Grelmsiz’
If you’ve recognized any mistakes feel free to notify us about it. This would help us to provide only the best-quality information.
Humidity
Normal
Lighting
Full Sun
Temperature
14°C - 16°C
Hardiness zone
9 - 10
Difficulty
Hard
Hibernation
Cold period
How to Care for the Plant
Water
Firebush watering should be done slowly and deeply using a garden hose or drip irrigation system at the base of the plant. Deep watering will promote long roots and a healthier, drought-tolerant shrub. Spread a generous layer of mulch such as bark chips or pine needles around the tree to minimize evaporation.
Pruning
The best time to prune is in late winter/early spring before it begins putting on new growth. The plant rarely grows to more than about 8' if left to its own devices, but I wouldn't be surprised to see 12-footers in ideal locations. Pruning in the summer will remove a lot of flower buds, but it can be done safely.
Fertilizer
If your firebush is healthy and doing well, it can live happily without fertilizer. If you think your plant could use a little nutrition, you can feed it a couple of times every year in early spring and again in early summer
Sunlight
Full Sun
Soil
Well-drained soils in full sun to part shade.
Temperature
During the production of the plants, day temperatures averaged 34° C.
Container
As an annual, it may be grown in borders, cottage gardens or containers.
Discover more plants with the list below
