Flame Acanthus, also known as the Hummingbird Bush or Wright's Desert Honeysuckle, is a Texas native shrub. It is found throughout the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico. This resilient plant is cherished for its striking tubular flowers, which range in color from fiery red and orange to vibrant coral, creating a spectacle that attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators. One of the standout features of Flame Acanthus is its long blooming period, which typically lasts from late spring through fall. During this time, the plant produces an abundance of flowers that emerge from slender stems and arching branches, creating a cascade of color that adds warmth and vibrancy to any landscape. Its slender, upright growth habit makes it an ideal choice for planting along borders, pathways, or in mixed perennial beds, where it can provide vertical interest and attract pollinators with its colorful blooms.
| Scientific Name |
Anisacanthus quadrifidus var. wrightii |
| Foliage: Deciduous |
Late Spring-Fall: This plant has a long blooming season and is known for its tubular, red-orange flowers that look like tiny flames.
Winter: Loses its leaves in the winter revealing an attractive, exfoliating (peeling) bark.
|
| Mature Height |
3-5 feet |
| Mature Width (Spread) |
3-5 feet |
| Growth Rate |
Fast (will often flower in its first year) |
| USDA Zone |
7-10 (Root hardy to zone 7; stems hardy to zone 8) |
Plant Care & Characteristics
Light Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade. It produces the most blooms in full sun but it is quite adaptable to light shade
Water Requirements: Low. Once established, it has very low water needs. However, during intense summer heat a small amount of supplemental water is beneficial and can trigger a massive flush of flowers.
Drought Resistance: High. This plant is very drought-tolerant. It is a staple for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
Soil Type: Highly Adaptable. It thrives in well-drained soils, including rocky limestone, sand, and even heavy clay. It is very tolerant of alkaline (high pH) soils.
Deer Resistance: High. It is very deer-resistant. Deer rarely bother it, making it safe for open landscapes.
Flame Acanthus is also relatively low-maintenance, requiring little more than occasional pruning to remove spent flower stalks and maintain its shape. This encourages fresh, bushy growth and a higher volume of flowers for the coming season. This plant is an absolute magnet for hummingbirds and butterflies.
