Hamelia patens aka Fire Bush

Hamelia patens is known as firebush or scarlet bush. It belongs to Rubiaceae, the same family as coffee. Its native range spans tropical and subtropical parts of America. It grows from Florida through the Caribbean and south to Argentina. In Puerto Rico, it grows in open ground and thickets. It keeps all or some of its leaves year-round.

This shrub can also grow into a small tree. Its size depends on climate and how gardeners grow it. Chicago Botanic Garden gives a height of 4–5 feet [1.2–1.5 metres]. Tropical references describe shrubs reaching 6–10 feet [1.8–3 metres]. Some trees reach about 16 feet [5 metres]. As an annual, it reaches 2–3 feet [0.6–0.9 metres]. Its annual spread is 1–2 feet [0.3–0.6 metres]. The stems have angular sides and can look green or red. Oval leaves have pink veins and paler undersides. They grow in opposite pairs or whorls of three to seven. Fall leaves can turn deep red or burgundy.

Clusters of tube-shaped flowers grow at the ends of stems. Their shades range from orange-red to red. In cooler gardens, bloom lasts from summer into fall. Chicago records flowers from May through October. Plants can flower throughout the year in their tropical home. Hummingbirds pollinate the flowers, and butterflies also visit them. The flowers feed adult Pluto sphinx moths. Small, juicy berries change from dark red to black. Birds eat the ripe fruit, which holds many tiny seeds.

Grow firebush in sun or part shade with good drainage. Full sun gives the best flower display. It tolerates heat and humid air. Established plants can cope with some drought in warm regions. Annual plants prefer regular moisture, while pots need more water. Sources place its winter hardiness in USDA zones 9–10. In colder places, gardeners grow it as an annual. They can also bring pots indoors for winter. It suits hedges, borders, cottage gardens, and gardens for birds or butterflies. Stem cuttings provide a way to raise new plants. Sources report no major insect or disease troubles.

The sour berries are edible, though their aftertaste limits use. People have used them for syrup and fermented drinks. Leaves and fruit also have a history of home remedies. A tropical reference reports toxicity but gives no clear details. It also records abortion-related use of leaves and young shoots. Edible fruit reports therefore do not establish safety for other parts. Leaves and stems have supplied tannins for treating leather.