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firebush
Scientific Name: Croton lucidus
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Firebush (Hamelia patens)
Firebush, scientifically known as Hamelia patens, is a captivating plant admired for its vibrant orange-red flowers that bloom throughout most of the year.
Common Names
- Firebush
- Scarlet Bush
- Hummingbird Bush
- Mexican Firebush
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Hamelia patens
- Family: Rubiaceae (Madder or Coffee Family)
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions that "Firebush" is also a common name for several other plants, including Euonymus alatus (Burning Bush). It is important to properly identify any plant material before allowing pets to interact with it, as different species may have different properties.
Distribution and Habitat
- Firebush is native to tropical and subtropical America, including Southern Florida, Central America, and South America.
- In Florida, it is found naturally in woodland hammocks and along roadsides.
Morphology and Growth Habits
- Firebush is described as a large, soft-stemmed shrub.
- It can be an evergreen shrub or small tree.
- In zones 8-11, the Mexican fire bush may freeze to the ground in winter, but can grow up to 5 feet tall by the end of summer.
- Some varieties feature green and yellow variegated foliage with red-orange flowers.
- It typically grows 3-4 feet tall and can reach 5 feet wide.
Ecological Role
- Firebush is a valuable wildlife plant, attracting butterflies, hummingbirds, and birds.
- It serves as a nectar source for butterflies and its berries are relished by wild birds.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Butterflies and hummingbirds are strongly attracted to Firebush.