Hamelia patens

Also Known As

Hummingbird Bush
Mexican Fire Bush
Scarlet Firebush

Plant type

shrub

size

H: 3'-15'
W: 3'-15'

planting zones

9a-10b

More Options

Hamelia patens plant details

Hamelia patens is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with green foliage. In summer orange and red flowers emerge. Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and regular - occasional water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in average and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and seaside / salt tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Hamelia patens

Plant type: shrub
Plant family: rubiaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 3 FT - 15 FT - wide, 3 FT - 15 FT - tall
Flowers: orange and red blooms in summer
Uses: container plant, houseplant, showy, tropical-looking, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Hamelia patens

USDA Zones: 9a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: regular - occasional
Resistant to: deer, heat and seaside / salt
Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Hamelia patens is known as Hummingbird or Scarlet Firebush producing long tubular bright orange-red clusters which attract hummingbirds. Blooms late spring thru fall. May be used as a bedding plant, container gardening, or as shrubs in the deep south...Cannot Freeze

By: Accents for Home and Garden

Large clusters of firey orange tubular blooms are borne from summer through fall on this vigorous tropical shrub. Bronze and reddish-orange tinged green foliage provides the backdrop for the display. While Hummingbirds and Sulphur Butterflies add color and motion. A tough and durable S Florida native that can be grown as a perennial in the northern parts of its range. Hamelia is a Dawn Stover Nifty Fifty favorite herbaceous plant! Dawn is a Research Associate at Stephen F Austin in Nacogdoches, TX and currently maintains the Mast Arboretum plant collection. For more about Dawn, the wonderful arboretum, and Stephen F Austin's excellent horticultural program click here.