Firebush

Common Name: Firebush, Hummingbird Bush, Firecracker Shrub, Mexican Firebush, Scarlet Bush, Scarletbush
Scientific Name: Hamelia patens
Botanical Family: Rubiacae, the madder Family
Hardy Zone: USDA Zones 8 – 11. Firebush is like coral bean: it is a semi-woody shrub or small tree in zones 10-11, and a perennial that dies to the ground in winter and sprouts back in spring in zones 8-9. Firebush also is grown as an annual or a potted plant in colder zones. (Reference Floridata)

Quick Reference:

Plant Type: Semi-Woody Shrub
Height: 4-5 feet, but in warm climates can attain heights to 15 feet
Sun Requirements: Partial to full sun
Flower Color: Red / Orange / Yellow
Bloom Timing: Late Spring through Fall
Propagate: By stem cuttings
Uses: Works well as a hedge, or a stand alone plant.

Special features / Fun Facts

Butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees galore! The Firebush has become one of our best selling plants. This fast growing shrub is so easy, and grows in partial sun, or full sun. Of course you will get more blooms in full sun, but additionally need to prune it more often as well. It is a fantastic addition to any butterfly garden or simply as an added pop of color to your landscaping.

Personally I have a 12 foot fire bush right outside of my dining room window. I cut it back often because of how fast it grows. The beautiful blooms attract butterflies and it was the first time I have seen a hummingbird in Central Florida. I even decided to hang a hummingbird feeder right next to the window so that we can still see them when the Firebush isn’t blooming.

Propagate Happiness Inventory

If you are interested in purchasing one of these fabulous plants – Check out Propagate Happiness Inventory! If you are in the Titusville, or Mims Central Florida area we would be happy to fulfill your plant needs!