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Firebush
Hamelia patens
Firebush is a tropical shrub celebrated for its fiery red-orange tubular flowers and ability to thrive in the heat, making it a perfect choice for Texas landscapes. While not native to Texas, this heat- and drought-tolerant plant is well-suited for areas with hot summers. Its flowers bloom from late spring until the first frost, providing a stunning display of color while attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators. The bright flowers are often complemented by its reddish-green foliage, which can deepen in color during cooler months.
This fast-growing shrub prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, though it will produce fewer blooms in lower light. Firebush thrives in well-drained soils and adapts to both alkaline and acidic conditions, provided the soil drains effectively. It is moderately drought-tolerant once established and generally low-maintenance, requiring only occasional watering during prolonged dry spells. Firebush is non-toxic and deer-resistant, making it a versatile and worry-free addition to many landscapes.
Firebush typically grows to a mature height and spread of 4 to 6 feet in North Texas but may reach up to 10 feet in frost-free areas. When planting, space individual plants 3 to 4 feet apart for hedges or mass plantings. Its natural growth habit is loosely rounded, but it can be pruned to maintain a desired shape or size. Firebush also works well in containers, where it can remain slightly smaller. However, gardeners should be mindful that Firebush is incredibly resilient—once established, it can be difficult to fully remove. Even when roots are dug up, the plant often reemerges from any fragments left behind.
In winter, Firebush is sensitive to frost and may die back to the ground in areas with freezing temperatures. However, it regrows from its roots in spring if protected with a thick layer of mulch before winter arrives. In frost-free climates, it remains evergreen and can bloom year-round with proper care.
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Hummingbird Magnet |
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Long blooming Season |
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Low Maintenance |
Flower Color:Red-Orange
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Height:4-6 Feet
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Spread:4-6 Feet
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Spacing:3-4 ft
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USDA Hardiness Zone 8b
Characteristics & Attributes
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Deer Tolerance
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Exposure
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Full Sun |
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Full Sun to Part Shade |
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Habit
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Semi Evergreen |
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Perennial |
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Soil pH Preference
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Water Needs
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Tolerates Poor Drainage
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