How to Grow Ugandan Flame Flower
Ugandan Flame Flower
Anthochlamys pubescens
flowerThe Ugandan Flame Flower is a striking perennial native to East Africa, known for its vibrant orange-red tubular flowers that bloom in dense clusters. This tender perennial produces attractive silvery-green foliage and attracts hummingbirds and pollinators. It thrives in warm climates but can be grown in containers and brought indoors in cooler regions.
When should you plant Ugandan Flame Flower in your zone?
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Example Ugandan Flame Flower timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ugandan Flame Flower
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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First Ugandan Flame Flower blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ugandan Flame Flower dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10-11; grow as an annual or container plant in zones 3-9
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with 2-4 true leaves emerge; plants are delicate and require humid conditions
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid damping off by ensuring good air circulation.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlant develops silvery-green fuzzy foliage and a bushy form; no flowers yet; stems strengthen and branch
Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushiness. Maintain even moisture and warm temperatures (65-75°F). Feed with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Flower Bud Formation
2-3 weeksTerminal flower buds form at stem tips; plants appear fuller and more robust with dense foliage
Shift to lower nitrogen, higher phosphorus fertilizer to promote blooming. Ensure adequate light. Maintain warm conditions.
Flowering
8-12 weeks or longerDense spikes of tubular orange-red flowers appear; blooms attract hummingbirds and butterflies; flowers open progressively along spike
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Water consistently but avoid wetting flowers. Support tall stems if needed.
Dormancy/Overwintering
2-4 monthsIn cooler climates, plants slow growth; foliage may decline. In warm zones, flowering may continue with reduced vigor
Reduce watering significantly. Move containers indoors in zones 3-9. Cut back leggy stems. Provide cooler temperatures (50-60°F) if possible.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; spray with water or insecticidal soap; use neem oil if infestation is severe
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Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage beneficial insects
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with neem oil; treat with insecticidal soap
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Improve drainage; reduce watering; repot in fresh soil if caught early; remove infected roots
Uses
Ornamental garnish
CulinaryThe striking tubular flowers can be used as an edible garnish for upscale dishes and special occasions. They add visual impact and a delicate floral note to plates. [source]
Hummingbird and pollinator nectar source
WildlifeThe tubular flowers are perfectly adapted to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators. They provide crucial nectar resources during warm months. [source]
Cut flower arrangements
HouseholdThe vibrant spikes of orange-red flowers make excellent long-lasting cut flowers for fresh arrangements. They add tropical flair to bouquets and containers. [source]
Dried flower arrangements
CraftThe tubular flowers dry well and retain their orange-red color, making them suitable for dried flower crafts, wreaths, and everlasting arrangements. [source]
Traditional East African herbal use
MedicinalIn East Africa, various related Acanthaceae family plants are used in traditional medicine. This plant may have similar ethnobotanical applications, 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
Pinch or deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage continuous blooming and bushier growth. Cut flowers last 1-2 weeks in a vase if desired. Harvest in early morning when stems are most turgid. For seed collection, leave some spent flowers on plant until seed pods dry naturally.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The Ugandan Flame Flower belongs to the Acanthaceae family, which includes over 2,500 species of flowering plants found primarily in tropical regions.
- 🌱 The fuzzy, silvery-green foliage is covered in fine hairs that help the plant reflect intense sunlight and reduce water loss in its native East African habitat.
- 🌱 The plant's tubular flowers are specifically coevolved with long-beaked hummingbirds and specialized pollinators in its native range, making it particularly valuable in gardens designed to attract these birds.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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