Firebush
Firebush (Hamelia patens) is an evergreen tropical shrub with an upright, multi-stemmed and tender growth habit. It is native to Mexico, Central America, and South America and grows to heights of 6-10 feet with a 3-4 foot spread. Firebush prefers and thrives in full sun to partial shade, and can take a degree of frost. It takes the form of an upright bush rather than a tree. It is considered an attractive yard specimen; it is low maintenance and has clusters of fragrant flowers with bright red tubular petals, producing abundant pollinators for its habitat.
Firebush is a drought tolerant shrub, and prefers the soil to be on the dry side. Keep the soil around the plant well-drained and not soggy. Water during prolonged dry conditions. Water deeply, especially in the summer. In winter, reduce watering frequency.
Firebush prefers to be placed in full sun or partial shade locations, as it will produce its best growth and flowers under these conditions. It can take a degree of frost, but cold temperatures of below 40°F (4.4°C) will stop flowering. To encourage a bushy growth habit, prune regularly.
Firebush is suitable for temperatures between 40-95°F (4.4-35°C). They will experience more stress and will not bloom in lower temperatures (below 40°F/4.4°C). In summer, the temperature should not go above 95°F (35°C) for best flowering and leaf size.
Firebush flourishes under conditions of medium to high humidity. Gardeners with dry air and low humidity can use a humidifier for the plant, or group it with other plants to increase the humidity. Stressed plants are gowing to a greater risk for disease and insect infestations.
Firebush needs a nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. A general rule of thumb is two parts quality potting soil, one part perlite, and one part compost. Mix this together and ensure that the soil is at least 6-7 cm (2-3 inches) deep.
Firebush should be fertilized at least once during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Apply fertilizer according to package instructions, as too much fertilizer can burn the roots. Fertilize again if growth slows or defoliates during the hot summer months. Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer to feed over a few months at a time.
Common pests for Firebush include whiteflies, scale, mites, mealybugs and aphids. Control by hosing down the plant with water, using sticky traps, and washing with insecticidal soap. Natural predators like ladybugs can also help reduce pest populations. Use caution when spraying with chemicals as Firebush can be sensitive to them.
When the rootball of the Firebush becomes root bound in its container, it’s time to repot. Repotting of Firebush should be done in early spring. Use a soil formula for tropical houseplants and move up one size pot; if repotting from a clay pot you can move up two sizes.
Prune Firebush regularly to maintain a desired shape and encourage a bushy growth habit. Pruning can be done in early spring or late winter. Deadheading spent flowers can help to encourage further flowering. Prune carefully to avoid damage to branches.
Mulching Firebush helps to keep the soil cooler, suppress weeds, and reduce moisture loss. Use organic mulches such as finely shredded bark, straw or compost. You can also use inorganic mulches like gravel or small stones. Keep the mulch away from the roots and stems.
Firebush can be propagated from cuttings. Take a 6-inch stem cutting just below a leaf node and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant in moist potting soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid location and mist daily. Once the rooted cutting has grown larger and established, it can be transplanted to a container or to the ground.
Due to its upright, bush-like growth habit, Firebush can become top-heavy and may require some support when it’s young. Staking should be done gently so as not to damage any roots. Alternatively, grow the firebush near a wall, fence, or trellis so it can get support.
Firebush does not require a rest period to bloom. The shrub can bloom year-round, particularly in mild climates. During the cooler months of fall and winter, water less often and fertilize the plant once every month.
Firebush is not considered toxic to cats, dogs, or humans if consumed in small amounts.