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Image shows the striking fiery spikes of flowers of
hummingbird and butterfly attractor, Odontonema strictum or Firespike
Gorgeous fiery red blossom of Odontonema strictum
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Odontonema strictum
(Firespike, Scarlet Flame, Cardinal Guard ) |
Synonyms: Odontonema tubiforme, Odontonema cuspidatum
Family: Acanthaceae
Origin: Central America
Light: Sun-part shade
Height: Up to 6'
Spread: 2-3'
Blooms: All year, upright spikes of brilliant red, tubular flowers
Foliage: Green
Soil: Well-drained, drought tolerant when established, mildly
acidic-neutral (pH: 6.1-7.5)
Water: Regular
Fertilizer: Monthly with 10-10-20 fertilizer. For more
blooms, apply iron to soil.
Propagation: Seeds, softwood cuttings
Uses: Screening, borders, hedges, mass plantings, back of perennial garden
Caution: All parts of the plant are poisonous. Do not ingest
or burn any part of plant. Seek immediate medical treatment for
any allergic reaction.
Comments: Odontonema strictum or Firespike or Scarlet Flame or
Cardinal Guard is a herbaceous tropical perennial
shrub with an upright growth habit. It bears striking red flowers that attract many hummingbirds,
bees and
butterflies, especially the Cloudless Sulpher butterflies love these
nectar-rich blossoms. Odontonema strictum is an easy-to-grow, drought and salt-tolerant and it requires very little maintenance.
Scarlet Flame is easily propagated from seeds or softwood cuttings.
This exotic plant thrives well in the sun to part shade back of the
border perennial garden. Odontonema strictum makes wonderful
xeriscaping plants. Grow them en masse for a beautiful screen,
hedge or fence. Prune Firespike in early
Spring to promote fuller growth and to maintain its size or just let it
grow as a tree. There are 3 other varieties of
Cardinal Guard; their colors are pink, purple and lavender.
USDA Hardiness Zones : 8-11 |
