Dwarf Mexican Firebush

Plant name: Dwarf Mexican Firebush

Scientific name: Hamelia patens var. glabra (dwarf selection)

Plant description:
Dwarf Mexican Firebush is a compact, heat-tolerant flowering shrub selected for its manageable size and extended bloom period. This smaller-growing form maintains the strong branching habit and vibrant floral display of standard firebush while fitting easily into residential landscapes and container plantings. Its steady flowering and adaptability make it a reliable choice for adding long-season color.

Flower description:
Clusters of tubular flowers in shades of red to orange-red appear continuously through warm weather. The blooms are held at the tips of the stems and are highly attractive to hummingbirds and pollinators. Flowering typically begins in late spring and continues until cooler temperatures slow growth.

Leaf description:
Leaves are medium to deep green, oval to slightly elongated, and arranged in whorls along the stems. In bright light, foliage may develop subtle reddish tones. The leaves create a dense backdrop that highlights the vivid flower clusters.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Evergreen in frost-free climates; semi-evergreen to deciduous in areas that experience cold winters.

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 9–11 outdoors; grown as a seasonal annual or container plant in cooler zones.

Mature height and width:
Typically 2–4 feet tall and 2–4 feet wide, depending on climate and pruning.

Landscape uses:
Suitable for borders, foundation plantings, pollinator gardens, patio containers, and mass plantings. Its compact size makes it effective in smaller spaces while still delivering strong color impact. It performs well in wildlife-focused gardens due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Native range:
Native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America.

Sun exposure:
Performs best in full sun, where flowering is most abundant and growth remains dense. Light shade may be tolerated but can reduce bloom production and overall compactness.

Water requirements:
Prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Once established, it shows good tolerance to short dry periods, though consistent moisture supports heavier flowering. Avoid poorly drained sites.

Pests and problems:
Generally low maintenance with few serious pest issues. Occasional aphids or whiteflies may appear. Overly wet soil can lead to root problems. Adequate airflow and proper spacing help maintain plant health.

Heat and sun tolerance: Cold tolerance:
Handles high heat and intense sun well. Sensitive to frost; foliage may be damaged by freezing temperatures, and prolonged cold can cause dieback to the ground. In suitable climates, regrowth occurs with the return of warm weather.

Growing tips:
Plant in a sunny location with well-drained soil to encourage dense branching and steady blooms. Light pruning during the growing season helps maintain shape and stimulates additional flowering. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can reduce bloom production and promote overly soft growth. Position where the bright flower clusters can attract pollinators and provide continuous seasonal color.

      ---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.