Hamelia, Firecracker Shrub, Hummingbird Bush, Mexican Firebush, Scarlet Bush 'African'

I bought this not knowing it was the "African" cultivar. It grew quickly to 10' x 10' in partial shade, and has really drawn the hummers ...Read Moreand butterflies as I had hoped. However, the leaves were always very green and there are few berries in fall/winter, which I wanted for our birds. Later I picked up a regular Firebush, which has also grown well. I like the regular bush more for its reddish leaves and profuse berry development. Both attract birds and butterflies. If I was looking to grow a hedge, I would choose the "African" since it seems to grow denser with smaller leaves and takes trimming well to form a dense hedge. Its blooms are also more yellow/orange than red.

Both types froze back in our worst winter 2 years ago, but grew back from the ground strongly. Propagates easily from 6" cuttings. A good reliable plant here in zone 9b.