Firecracker bush (Bouvardia ternifolia)
Care, watering, light and tips for Firecracker bush on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Rubiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Firecracker bush
Bouvardia ternifolia, commonly known as firecracker bush or trompetilla, is a perennial shrub or subshrub native to North America, valued for its vibrant scarlet-red tubular flowers. Its inflorescences, appearing mainly in summer and autumn, attract hummingbirds and butterflies, creating a spectacular focal point in rock gardens, borders, or as a potted plant in temperate climates.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
It requires full sun to partial shade for abundant flowering. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, and more frequent during flowering periods. It prefers well-drained soils, rich in organic matter, and with a neutral to slightly acidic pH; avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Firecracker bush
- Warning signs
- Wilted or yellowing leaves, flower bud drop, soft or dry stems.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture: if dry, water deeply; if waterlogged, aerate roots and reduce watering.
- What kills it
- Severe over or under-watering, cold drafts, lack of light or intense direct sun in summer.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't rotted or completely dry. Bouvardia is resilient.