Deciduous Shrub – ‘Estrellita Scarlet’ Firecracker Bush

‘Estrellita Scarlet’ Firecracker Bush 

Botanical name: bouvardia x estrellita scarlet 

Beginner friendly?: 

Average size at maturity: about 2 ft in height and in spread 

Hardy zone: zones 8-10 

Growth rate: reaches fully mature size in first growing season 

Foliage color: green 

Flower color: red/orange 

Bloom time:  spring, summer, fall 

Pruning instructions: prune lightly in the late winter/early spring before new growth begins to emerge to maintain desired shape and size

Propagation methods: propagate with new growth cuttings during the spring

Landscape use: borders, design, low hedge, container shrub 

Special features: attracts pollinators, deer resistant, long-lasting blooms 

Light needs: 4-6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring

Best time to plant: spring 

Best type of soil: loam, sand 

Companion plants: hydrangeas, salvia, lantana, coleus 

Toxicity level: potentially toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no