Scarlet Bush, Firebush
hamelia patens
Also known as: ["Firebush","Scarlet Mound"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to the Americas, known for its vibrant red-orange flowers and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Hamelia |
| Botanical Name: | Hamelia patens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or large container in a sheltered area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can be used.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions; ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 30°F (-1°C) but prefers frost-free environments.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize after pruning; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; softwood cuttings root most reliably.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and shaping cuts to maintain form.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushiness, remove dead/damaged growth, and manage size.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape for airflow; remove spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and vigor.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; vulnerable to frost damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they consume parts of Hamelia patens, particularly the berries and seeds. The plant is not highly toxic to cats, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Hamelia patens berries or seeds can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised, particularly with small or sensitive breeds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHamelia patens, commonly known as scarlet bush, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The berries and seeds are the primary toxic parts, though they are not highly poisonous.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hamelia patens toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Hamelia patens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How much water does Hamelia patens need?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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