Firebush is the name given to a series of plants that grow in the southeastern U.S. and bloom profusely with bright red, tubular flowers. But what exactly constitutes a firebush, and how many varieties are there? Keep reading to learn more about the many different firebush cultivars and species, as well as the confusion that is sometimes caused by them.
What are the Different Kinds of Firebush Plant?
Firebush is the general name given to several different plants, a fact that can result in some confusion. If you’d like to read more extensively about this confusion, the Florida Association of Native Nurseries has a good, thorough breakdown of it. In more basic terms, however, all types of firebush belong to the genus Hamelia, which contains 16 distinct species and is native to South and Central America, the Caribbean, and the southern United States. Hamelia patens var. patens is the variety that is native to Florida – if you live in the southeast and are looking for a native bush, this is the one you want. Getting your hands on it is easier said than done, however, because many nurseries have been known to mislabel their plants as natives. Hamelia patens var. glabra, sometimes known as African firebush, is a non-native variety that is frequently sold simply as Hamelia patens… as is its Florida cousin. To avoid this confusion, and to keep from inadvertently spreading this non-native plant, only buy from nurseries that certify their firebushes as native.
More Firebush Plant Varieties
There are several other varieties of firebush that are on the market, though most of them are not native to the U.S. and, depending upon where you live, it may be ill-advised or even impossible to buy them. There are cultivars of Hamelia patens called “Dwarf” and “Compacta” that are smaller than their cousins. Their exact parentage is unknown. Hamelia cuprea is another species. Native to the Caribbean, it has reddish leaves. Hamelia patens ‘Firefly’ is another variety with bright red and yellow flowers.
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Firebush Winter Care Guide – Can You Grow A Firebush In WinterKnown for its bright red flowers and extreme heat tolerance, firebush is a popular blooming perennial. But as with many plants that thrive on heat, the question of cold quickly arises. Learn more about firebush cold tolerance and firebush winter care here.
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Can You Grow A Firebush Hedge: Firebush Boundary Plant GuideKnown for its dazzlingly red flowers and ability to sustain high temperatures, firebush is also known for being able to take a serious pruning. These qualities combine to make it a great choice for a natural hedge. Learn more about growing firebush hedge plants here.
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Uses For Firebush Plants: What Is Firebush Good ForFirebush earns its name two ways - one for its blazing red foliage and flowers, and one for its ability to thrive in the extreme summer heat. The versatile plant has several uses, both in and beyond the garden. Learn more about using firebush shrubs in this article.
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Firebush Container Care: Can You Grow Firebush In A PotA lover of hot weather, firebush is native to tropical regions. In cooler, non-tropical locations, firebush can be grown as an annual or container plant. Click here to learn some care tips for potted firebush plants and see if this plant is for you.
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Firebush Seed Sowing: When To Plant Firebush SeedsIf you are wondering about growing beautiful and easy-care firebush, then click this article for information on firebush seed propagation. We’ll offer tips on growing firebush from seeds including when and how to plant firebush seeds.
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Firebush Leaf Drop: Reasons For No Leaves On A FirebushFirebush is generally easy to grow if you live in the warm climates of USDA plant hardiness zone 9 through 11, but even this hardy shrub is sometimes beset by problems, including firebush leaf drop. Explore what may be to blame in this article.
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Firebush Watering Guide – Tips For Watering A Firebush ShrubFirebush is practically bullet-proof once established and tends to be relatively drought tolerant, but it does regular irrigation, especially during the early years. Click on the following article and we’ll discuss firebush water requirements.
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Firebush Pruning Guide – Learn How To Prune A FirebushCutting back a firebush needs to be done at the right time in order to preserve the next year's flowers. Learn when to trim a firebush so you can keep it tidy and still enjoy a lushly blooming plant. This article will help get you started.
