Hammer toe

Hamelia patens is a large perennial shrub or small tree in the coffee family, Rubiaceae, that is native to the American subtropical and tropical regions. It is known by a variety of names such as firebush, hummingbird bush, scarlet bush, and redhead.

Human foot with mallet toe

Description

Hamelia patens can grow up to 4 meters (13 ft) high in frost-free areas, and is usually smaller where it is not hardy and grown as a summer annual or container plant. The leaves are evergreen, simple, opposite, and elliptic to ovate, 5–15 cm long. The flowers are tubular, bright red or orange, 1–4 cm long, and are produced at the leaf axils. The fruit is a small dark red berry turning black at maturity.

Distribution and habitat

Hamelia patens is native to southern parts of the United States (Florida and Texas), Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and tropical South America south to Peru and Bolivia. It is often found in open, sunny areas with well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in a variety of soil types.

Uses

Hamelia patens is often used in horticulture for its bright red flowers, which attract hummingbirds and butterflies. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions, infections, and digestive problems. However, its medical efficacy has not been scientifically proven.

Cultivation

Hamelia patens can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is relatively low-maintenance and can be pruned to maintain a desired shape.

References

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