How to Grow Firespike
Firespike
Odontonema cuspidatum
shrubFirespike is a tropical to subtropical evergreen shrub known for its striking tubular flowers that bloom in vibrant red, orange, or scarlet clusters. Native to Mexico, it attracts hummingbirds and butterflies with its nectar-rich blooms that appear from mid-summer through fall. This ornamental plant thrives in warm climates and adds dramatic color to gardens and landscapes.
When should you plant Firespike in your zone?
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Example Firespike timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Firespike
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Firespike
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Firespike dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 9b-11; can be grown in containers in cooler zones and brought indoors
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Establishment
4-8 weeksYoung plants are leafy green shrubs with soft stems and dark green, lance-shaped leaves
Water regularly to establish deep roots. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Protect from strong winds. Apply mulch around base.
Vegetative Growth
6-10 weeksPlant develops woody stems and fuller foliage; becomes more compact and bushy
Pinch back growing tips to encourage branching and denser growth. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with balanced fertilizer. Continue regular watering.
Bud Formation
2-4 weeksTerminal spikes develop small red or orange buds at branch tips
Maintain consistent moisture and fertilizer schedule. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen as it reduces flowering. Ensure adequate sunlight.
Flowering
8-12 weeksShowy tubular flowers in red, orange, or scarlet colors open sequentially on dense spikes, attracting hummingbirds
Continue regular watering and feeding with lower-nitrogen, higher-phosphorus fertilizer to promote more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued flowering.
Dormancy/Decline
3-4 monthsFlowering slows in late fall and winter; plant may lose some leaves in cold snaps or very dry conditions
Reduce watering and fertilizer. Prune out dead or frost-damaged wood. In zones below 9b, bring container plants indoors or protect with frost cloth.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe. Increase humidity.
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Prune out heavily infested branches; spray with horticultural oil or neem oil. Monitor regularly.
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap for large infestations.
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Spray forcefully with water; use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Uses
Hummingbird Nectar
CulinaryWhile not directly consumed by humans, firespike flowers produce nectar that attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity in the garden. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdThe vibrant red or orange flower spikes make striking cut flowers for floral arrangements and can last up to a week in water. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeFirespike is an excellent nectar source for hummingbirds, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it valuable for wildlife gardens and pollinator corridors. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping
CraftThe shrub's dramatic tubular flowers and evergreen foliage make it a popular choice for tropical and subtropical garden design, accent plantings, and container gardening. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalIn traditional Mexican herbalism, Odontonema species have been used for various medicinal purposes, though scientific validation is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Firespike is an ornamental shrub, not harvested for fruit or vegetables. However, you can cut flowers for arrangements when tubular blooms are fully open. Cut stems in early morning for longest vase life (typically 5-7 days). Regular deadheading of spent flowers encourages continued blooming throughout the season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Firespike's tubular flowers are specifically adapted for hummingbird pollination, with their long, narrow shape perfectly matching the shape of a hummingbird's beak.
- 🌱 The plant is also called Scarlet Sage in some regions, though it is not related to true sages; it belongs to the Acanthaceae (Acanthus) family.
- 🌱 In tropical regions where it thrives year-round, firespike can bloom almost continuously if provided with consistent water and fertilizer.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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