Also known as Butterfly Bush · Fire Bush · Firebush
Scarletbush (Hamelia patens) is a vibrant shrub celebrated for its year-round display of tubular, fiery red-orange flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate to High during growth, reduced in dormancy
75% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained loam
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate during growing season
50% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks from spring to summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Scarletbush prefers consistent moisture, especially during its active growth period. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering in cooler months, allowing the soil to dry out slightly more between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot.
Prune Scarletbush in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pinching back young stems promotes a more compact and floriferous plant.
Regular deadheading of spent flowers can also prolong blooming.
Scarletbush is easily propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining, moist potting mix.
Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop, which typically takes several weeks. Seed propagation is also possible.
Young Scarletbush plants may need repotting annually, while mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years. Repot in spring when new growth begins.
Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one and use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Scarletbush (Hamelia patens)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Hamelia |
| Species | Hamelia patens |
Similar in genus Hamelia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
