Latin name - Odontonema strictum

Firespike is one of the most striking flowering shrubs in the Florida food forest.  Firespike grows 4-6 feet tall and produces 3-4 inch long clusters of vibrantly colored flowers.  These flowers are the first stop on a hummingbird's daily feeding journey.  Plant Firespike first if you want to attract hummingbirds.  Bees and other pollinators enjoy the nectar as well.  The glossy green foliage makes this plant an attractive even if it is not flowering, which it does throughout the year.  The flowers can range from red, to fuchsia to coral pink to lavender.  

Plant in full sun to part shade and is moderately drought tolerant once established.