Firebush

Firebush (Hamelia patens) is a showy Florida shrub much beloved of butterflies. The trumpet shaped bright orange flowers are great attractors for larger butterflies like Monarch, Sulphurs, Zebra Longwing and even some Swallowtails. Also a favorite of hummingbirds, placing this shrub in your garden almost guarantees you some visits from your local wildlife.

Firebush can quickly grow into a tall shrub and can be pruned into a small tree. If you don't have enough room for such a large plant look for the dwarf variety often known as 'Compacta' which stays around the 5 to 6 foot range. If hit with too much frost, Firebush may appear to die back completely, but will often surprise you flushing back out in the spring with gorgeous reddish foliage.

Firebush like sunny areas and bloom less often if planted in the shade. When stressed from lack of water or too much heat, this shrub may start to look ragged and might need some extra care.

However, Firebush planted in just the right spot will flourish and bring all the butterflies to the yard. Sometimes you may ever get a real showdown as butterflies shoulder past each other to get to the most choice nectar bearing blooms!