Hamelia patens (Firebush)

The tubular orange-red flowers of Hamelia patens are a primary nectar source for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds and large butterflies like the Zebra Longwing in the southern United States. Because it blooms continuously from spring to frost, it provides reliable, crucial food for these native species.

Yes, the dark red to black berries that follow the flowers are entirely edible and have a slightly tart, refreshing flavor. Indigenous peoples in Central America historically consumed the berries and also used the stems and leaves to make medicinal teas for treating skin rashes.

In tropical and subtropical climates like southern Florida and the Caribbean, Firebush can easily grow 3 to 5 feet in a single season, often reaching a mature height of 10 to 15 feet. In areas where it freezes back in the winter, it rapidly shoots up from the roots in the spring.