Perennials > Evergreen > Mexican Firebush - Hamelia patens

Family Rubiaceae (-see-ee)
Genus Hamelia (ham-EE-lee-uh)
Species patens (PAT-ens)
Also Known as Firecracker Shrub, Scarlett Bush, Hummingbird Bush

Category Tropicals & Tender Perennials
Height 8-10 ft.
Spacing 4-6 ft.
Sun Exposure Full Sun
Bloom Color Red-Orange
Bloom Time Late Spring/Early Winter
Foliage Deciduous

Hardiness
Zone 8a to 10 F
Zone 8b to 15 F
Zone 9a to 20 F
Zone 9b to 25 F

Soil pH Requirements
6.1 to 6.5 (Mildly Acidic)
6.6 to 7.5 (Neutral)
7.6 to 7.8 (Mildly Alkaline)

Water Requirements
Average water needs

Pruning Instructions
Cut to 6" height after 1st hard freeze - mulch well

Propagation Methods
From seed; direct sow outdoors in fall

Seed Collecting
Collect seed-head pod when flowers fade; allow to dry
Allow pods to dry on plant; break open to collect seeds

Other Details
 Attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds

Freezing Temps by Year:
2009-2010 Year: Freezing temps 12/09 & 01/10 * moderate winter
2010-2011 Year: Freezing temps 01/11 & 02/11 * moderate winter
2011/2012 Year: Freezing temps 12/11 & 01/12 * mild winter
2012/2013 Year: Freezing temps 12/12 & 01/13 * very mild winter