Embothrium
Fire bush, Chilean fire bush
- Height × spread
- 3.5m – 3.5m × 3m – 3m
- Position
- Full sun
Availability
Please ask in store about availability
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
There are around 8 species in this genus, both trees and shrubs, and they are all evergreen. They come from South America, growing in the Andes. Only one species, Embothrium coccineum, is really seen in UK gardens. This is variably hardy but often survives outside all year in the warmer parts of the UK when grown in sheltered, preferably woodland, locations. They require lime-free soil to thrive. They are valued for their extraordinary red or orange flowers which has given rise to the popular name 'Fire Bush'.
- Flower colour
- Orange
- Foliage colour
- Green
- Variegated
- No
- Scent
- Yes, some varieties
- Shape
- Fan
- Height
- 3.5m – 3.5m
- Spread
- 3m – 3m
- Season of interest
- Spring, Summer
- Evergreen
- Evergreen
- Garden style
- Scented garden, Exotic garden
- Sun or shade
- Likes full sun
- Soil type
- Loam (normal)
- Soil pH
- Acid (ericaceous), Neutral
- Drainage
- Moisture retentive soil, Well drained soil
- Winter hardiness
- Varies, some are not hardy
- Borders & containers
- Borders
- Use for
- Structural
- Hazards
- No
Spring
Spring - late · Outdoors
Feed young plants with slow release fertiliser
Spread a slow release fertiliser around the base of the plant to the edge of the foliage spread, so that it can feed the roots. It is helpful for this to be applied for several years.
This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost until the plant becomes well established.
Spring-Autumn · Outdoors
Water to keep the soil moist
For best results, this plant needs soil that is always moist. Water deeply and regularly as soon as soil appears dry. Even for established plants in the ground, a dry week can cause problems with some soils. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather. Or install an automatic irrigation system which will do the hard work for you, even when you are away on holiday.
Without regular watering some plants never fully regain their beauty.
Winter
Winter · Planting
Remove suckers
Remove any suckers that have appeared round the base of the plant. They can often be pulled up, but it may be necessary to use secateurs or loppers to detach them from the parent plant.