Hamelia patens
TAXONOMY
FamilyRubiaceae
GenusHamelia
Zone9
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Hamelia patens, commonly known as Firebush, is a perennial shrub or small tree native to the American tropics and subtropics. It is known for its bright red or orange tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates and can grow up to 3 meters in height.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Firebush
Schoenleinia Thyrsoidea
Duhamelia odorata
Duhamelia patens
Duhamelia sphaerocarpa
Hamelia brachystemon
Hamelia brittoniana
Hamelia coccinea
Hamelia corymbosa
Hamelia erecta
Hamelia intermedia
Hamelia lanuginosa
Hamelia latifolia
Hamelia nodosa
Hamelia ovata
Hamelia patens var. axillaroides
Hamelia patens var. erecta
Hamelia patens var. glabra
Hamelia patens var. patens
Hamelia patens var. quinifolia
Hamelia pedicellata
Hamelia sphaerocarpa
Hamelia suaveolens
Hamelia tubiflora
Hamelia verticillata
Hamelia viridifolia
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Firebush requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth and should be placed in a location where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. It prefers moderate temperatures and moderate humidity levels. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, but avoid waterlogging.Soil
Hamelia patens prefers well-draining loamy soil. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent root rot. A mix of garden soil with some sand and organic matter works well for this plant.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically every 4-6 weeks, to promote healthy growth and flowering.Repotting
Repot the Firebush when it outgrows its current container, usually every 2-3 years. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage holes. Carefully remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Hamelia patens can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. For cuttings, take a healthy stem cutting in the spring or early summer, dip it in rooting hormone, and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a bright, indirect light until it roots.Pruning
Prune the Firebush to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Pruning is best done in the early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back overgrown areas.Toxicity
Hamelia patens is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to avoid any accidental ingestion.Additional
Firebush is a hardy plant that can tolerate some drought once established. It is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it a relatively low-maintenance plant for outdoor gardens.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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