Mexican Hummingbird Bush

Dicliptera suberecta

Characteristics

Culture

Few plants garner attention in the perennial garden more than Mexican Hummingbird Bush or Uruguayan firecracker plant. If the lavish display of tubular orange flowers set over blue-gray foliage isn’t enough, then the flutter and hum of activity surrounding the plant is sure to attract your gaze. Hummingbirds, butterflies and bumblebees all find the nectar and pollen of this lovely plant irresistible. Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates some light shade and drought.

The Mexican Hummingbird Bush is a tender herbaceous perennial, though often grown as an annual. It is native to central South America and will bring a vibrant burst of color to your garden. Its bright orange/red flowers blossom throughout the summer and into the autumn months. It is drought tolerant and endures humidity, making this an ideal plant for many areas such which have these conditions.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Dicliptera suberecta features ovate, velvety, gray-hairy leaves (to 2 1/2″ long) and two-lipped, tubular reddish-orange flowers (1-3/4″ long). Typically grows in a shrubby mound to 18-24″ tall and as wide. Mexican Hummingbird Bush blooms summer into fall. Flowers are attractive to hummingbirds, hence the sometimes common name of hummingbird plant. Synonymous with Jacobinia suberecta.   It prefers a sunny location in well-drained soil, and while it appreciates an occasional summer watering, it is quite drought tolerant as well as heat tolerant, easily handling temperatures above 100°F. With some protection, it’s root hardy to -5°F. It will remain evergreen if winter temperatures don’t drop below the low 20s.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Garden Uses

It has a habit of spreading to surrounding free spaces, making it perfect to help fill flower beds with a fiery floral display. Containers or hanging baskets.