Hummingbird Plants and Trees

Callistemon citrinus: Red Bottlebrush

Edward F. Gilman and Dennis G. Watson

Asclepias tuberosa Butterfly Weed, Indian Paintbrush

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), a member of the milkweed family. It details the plant’s characteristics, including its growth habits, flowering period, and preferred growing conditions. The butterfly weed is noted for its vibrant orange, red, and yellow flowers, which attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The document also covers the plant’s uses, propagation methods, and potential pest issues. Additionally, it highlights the plant’s medicinal uses and its tendency to self-seed and escape cultivation. Original publication date October 1999.

Agapanthus orientalis: Agapanthus, African Lily, Lily of the Nile

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

Hibiscus coccineus Scarlet Rosemallow, Texas Star Hibiscus, Swamp Hibiscus

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides a detailed overview of the scarlet rosemallow (Hibiscus coccineus), a herbaceous perennial native to Florida. It describes the plant’s physical characteristics, including its height, leaf structure, and vibrant red flowers. The document also covers its growth requirements, such as light and soil preferences, and its uses in landscaping. Additionally, it mentions the plant’s propagation methods and potential pest issues. The scarlet rosemallow is noted for its ornamental value and ability to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Original publication date October 1999.

Cephalanthus occidentalis Buttonbush

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides detailed information about Cephalanthus occidentalis, commonly known as Buttonbush. It highlights the plant’s attractive medium green leaves and its distinctive late spring flower display, featuring white flowers in 1 to 1½ inch clusters. The document also discusses the plant’s relevance to various wildlife, including hummingbirds, and its suitability for different landscaping purposes. Additionally, it includes structured data and references to related topics and publications. Original publication date October 1999. 

Jatropha integerrima: Peregrina

Edward F. Gilman, Dennis G. Watson, Ryan W. Klein, Andrew K. Koeser, Deborah R. Hilbert, and Drew C. McLean

Aesculus x carnea 'Briotii': Ruby Red Horsechestnut

Edward F. Gilman and Dennis G. Watson

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Kalanchoe, Christmas Kalanchoe, Madagascar Widow's-thrill

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides a detailed overview of Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, commonly known as kalanchoe, Christmas kalanchoe, or Madagascar widow’s-thrill. It describes the plant’s characteristics, including its dark green, succulent leaves, and vibrant flower clusters. The document highlights its suitability for various uses such as groundcover, rock gardens, and containers, due to its tolerance of low moisture conditions. Additionally, it outlines the plant’s growth requirements, propagation methods, and potential issues, making it a comprehensive guide for gardeners and horticulturists interested in cultivating this ornamental perennial. Original publication date October 1999.

Hamelia patens Firebush, Scarlet Bush

Edward F. Gilman, Alan Meerow, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the firebush (Hamelia patens), a large, soft-stemmed shrub native to Florida. It details the plant’s physical characteristics, including its height, spread, and distinctive orange-red flowers. The firebush is noted for its fast growth rate, evergreen leaves, and year-round flowering. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11 and is tolerant of various soil types and conditions. The document also highlights the plant’s uses in landscaping, its attractiveness to hummingbirds and butterflies, and its moderate drought tolerance. Additionally, it discusses propagation methods and potential pest issues.  Original publication date October 1999.

Lonicera sempervirens Trumpet Honeysuckle

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the trumpet honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens), a native vine known for its vibrant, trumpet-shaped crimson flowers that attract hummingbirds. It details the plant’s characteristics, including its growth habits, hardiness zones, and soil tolerances. The document also covers planting and care instructions, highlighting its suitability for sunny locations and its moderate drought tolerance. Additionally, it mentions the plant’s propagation methods and available cultivars, along with common pests and diseases that may affect it. Overall, trumpet honeysuckle is presented as an excellent choice for naturalizing and adding ornamental value to gardens. Original publication date October 2007.

Aesculus pavia: Red buckeye

Edward F. Gilman, Dennis G. Watson, Ryan W. Klein, Andrew K. Koeser, Deborah R. Hilbert and Drew C. McLean

Aesculus x carnea: Red Horsechestnut

Edward F. Gilman and Dennis G. Watson

Odontonema strictum Firespike

Edward F. Gilman, Terry Delvalle, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the firespike plant (Odontonema strictum), an herbaceous perennial known for its striking red flowers that bloom in fall and winter. It details the plant’s physical characteristics, including its height, leaf structure, and growth habits. The document also discusses the plant’s preferred growing conditions, such as partial shade and moderately fertile, sandy soils, and its moderate drought tolerance. Additionally, it highlights the plant’s uses in landscaping, its attractiveness to hummingbirds and butterflies, and its propagation methods. The document concludes with practical advice on planting, spacing, and maintenance. Original publication date October 1999. 

Cuphea ignea Cigar Plant, Cigar Flower

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the cigar flower (Cuphea ignea), highlighting its year-round flowering, attractive foliage, and suitability for various landscape uses. It details the plant’s characteristics, including its height, spread, growth rate, and leaf and flower features. The document also covers the plant’s hardiness zones, planting recommendations, and care instructions, emphasizing its moderate drought tolerance and pest resistance. Additionally, it notes the plant’s ability to attract hummingbirds and its availability in specialty garden centers. Original publication date October 1999.

Campsis radicans Trumpet Creeper, Trumpet Vine

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the trumpet vine (Campsis radicans), a fast-growing, deciduous vine native to Florida. It details the plant’s characteristics, including its brilliant orange flowers, high drought tolerance, and invasive potential. The trumpet vine thrives in full sun and various soil types but requires regular pruning to manage its growth. It is suitable for arbors, trellises, and containers, attracting hummingbirds and occasionally hosting ants. The document also mentions several cultivars and common issues like leaf spot and powdery mildew. Original publication date October 1999.