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Hamelia patens, commonly called firebush, 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. The seeds are small, dark brown and reticulate. Butterflies
and hummingbirds are reportedly attracted to the flowers, and birds enjoy the
fruits.
As a perennial, it grows well in hedges, borders and as an accent
plant. As an annual, it may be grown in borders, cottage gardens or containers.
Interesting plant for butterfly and bird gardens. Winter hardy to USDA Zones
9-10. Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in full sun to part
shade. Good soil drainage is important for this plant. When grown as an annual,
this plant may be sited directly in the soil or in containers that can be
overwintered indoors. Although somewhat drought-tolerant once established as a
perennial in southern areas, it prefers regular moisture when grown as an
annual. Best flowering is in full sun conditions. Thrives in high heat.
Growing Instructions
1. The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half
potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. Put the soil in a pot.
Water the mixture so that it is moist but not wet.
2. Put the seeds on the soil.
3. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
4. Water the seeds.
5. Place the pots in an area with warm temperatures in full sun or part
shade.
6. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.
Phoenix (verified owner) –
The product is firmly packed.
Richard (verified owner) –
Good service.
Michael (verified owner) –
Very fast delivery.
Lucas (verified owner) –
The seeds had a great germination rate
Lucas (verified owner) –
The seeds had a great germination rate