Hamelia patens

• This species is cold sensitive and will die back if it freezes
• There are recent observations of the plant in north Florida where it appears to be naturalizing. This is "assissted migration" and could be an the that it may become invasive outside of its range

Readily available from native nurseries. Easily transplanted. May sucker and suckers can be moved. Readily grows from seed.
Plants sold at big box stores are usually not the native variety.

• Birds and small mammals eat the fruits
• Birds are noted for dispersing the seed
• Hummingbirds come for nectar

• Larval host for the pluto sphinx moth
• Butterflies, noted for attracting zebrawing 
• Attracts sphinx moths 
• Attracts long-tongued bees including bumblebees.

Dry sites. Coastal forests, upland forests, hammocks.

Closely related plants occur in the Caribbean and Central America. Yellow or orange flowering plants are not the Florida native.

In recent years plants have been found growing wild near homesites in north Florida -- what you plant can escape into the wild if planted beyond the natural range. Please plant responsibly - this plant has the potential to be invasive when used outside of its natural range.   Please act responsibly.