Overview

Firespike is a lush tropical shrub known for upright spikes of vivid red tubular flowers, often peaking when many gardens have fewer blooms.

Mature Size and Habit

Plants usually form clumps about 4 to 6 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide, with upright stems rising from the base. Warm conditions can produce rapid growth, while winter cold may reduce the plant to lower stems or roots.

Best Landscape Uses

Mass firespike in pollinator gardens, shaded tropical borders, beneath high tree canopy, or at the back of a mixed planting.

Sunlight

Partial sun or bright filtered shade is ideal in Central Florida. Morning sun with afternoon protection helps preserve foliage during hot weather.

Soil, Drainage, and Irrigation

Use organic, well-drained soil that retains moderate moisture without remaining waterlogged. Water regularly during establishment and during prolonged dry weather. Mulch the root zone, but keep mulch off stems to reduce rot.

Best Planting Season for Tampa and Central Florida

Install after the last meaningful frost risk, or plant in early fall while soil is warm and allow time for rooting. Spring planting provides the longest first growing season.

Pruning and Maintenance

Cut back cold-damaged stems after frost danger passes. Tip-prune young growth for branching, and selectively shorten tall stems after flowering when needed. Remove declining stalks at the base and divide or thin crowded clumps to maintain airflow.

Wildlife Value

Tubular red flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and also provide nectar for butterflies and other pollinators.

Cold and Heat Sensitivity

Firespike thrives in humid summer heat when soil moisture is dependable. Freezing temperatures can burn foliage or kill stems to the ground, though established roots may resprout in protected Tampa locations. Mulch before cold snaps and postpone cleanup.

Safety, Roots, and Placement Warnings

No major landscape toxicity or aggressive-root issue is widely recognized, but ornamental plants should not be eaten without reliable identification. Keep vigorous stems out of narrow paths and allow clearance from walls and equipment.

Invasive Concerns

Firespike is nonnative and can spread by stems, clump expansion, or seed in favorable climates.

Helpful Resources

Read the UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions profile for Florida culture and wildlife value.