Mexican Flame Bush

(Calliandra tweedii)

Mexican Flame Bush (Calliandra tweedii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Calliandra tweedii, commonly known as Mexican Flame Bush, is an evergreen shrub native to South America. It typically grows to a height of 5-7 feet (1.5-2.1 meters) and a width of 3 feet (0.9 meters). The plant has a bushy habit with fine, feathery foliage and produces vibrant, puffball-like flowers that are primarily red, with stamens that give them a fiery appearance. The blooming season extends from spring to fall, with the most profuse flowering occurring in the warmer months.

Mexican Flame Bush is valued for its showy flowers and ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a popular choice for wildlife gardens. It is used in cultivation for ornamental purposes in tropical and subtropical landscapes, often as a specimen plant, in mixed borders, or as informal hedges. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and requires well-drained soil with moderate to low water once established. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects in dry conditions. Pruning after flowering can help maintain its shape and promote denser growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 5-7 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Red
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Other Names

Common Names: Borlas De Obispo , Diadema , Flame Bush , Mandavare , Palode Pincel , Pincel Del Aire , Plumerillo , Topete De Cardenal

Scientific Names: Calliandra tweedii , Calliandra foliosa , Calliandra tweediei , Anneslia tweedyi , Calliandra tweediei var. tweediei , Feuilleea tweedyi

GBIF Accepted Name: Calliandra tweedii Benth.