Landscape Uses
Style Tags
South Florida Growing Guide
Light Requirements
Water Requirements
Once established (12–18 months), Firebush is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Moderate water needs. During establishment (6-12 months) water 2x per week. Once established, rainfall is usually sufficient with occasional dry-season supplemental watering. Tolerates brief dry periods.
Soil and Fertilization
Fertilizer: Low-phosphorus slow-release native plant fertilizer
Schedule: February and September. Low-phosphorus native fertilizer.
Salt Tolerance
- Mature Height
- 5–12 ft
- Mature Width
- 4–8 ft
- Growth Rate
- fast
- Water Demand
- 3/10
- Florida Grade
- Florida
- Installed Cost
- $
- USDA Zones
- 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11
- FLEPPC Status
- None
- Iguana Rating
- 7/10
Where to Buy in South Florida
Find Firebush at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Firebush grow in South Florida?
Firebush has a fast growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.
Is Firebush safe for pets?
Yes, Firebush is considered pet-safe. Non-toxic to dogs and cats.
How much water does Firebush need in South Florida?
Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), Firebush is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Can Firebush tolerate salt air in South Florida?
Firebush has moderate salt tolerance (5/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.
Is Firebush available in Miami-Dade County?
In Miami-Dade County, Firebush is classified as: protected. Florida native — HOA cannot prohibit.
County Availability in South Florida
Miami-Dade County
Florida native — HOA cannot prohibit. FFL showcase plant.
USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.
View County Guide →Broward County
Florida native — protected. FFL program standard species.
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.
View County Guide →Palm Beach County
Native — protected. Butterfly garden standard.
USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.
View County Guide →Collier County
Native — protected. Pollinator and wildlife garden required species.
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.
View County Guide →Monroe County
Native Keys species — protected. Excellent for Monroe wildlife corridors.
USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.
View County Guide →Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.
Need a Spec Sheet?
Export a client-ready PDF with Florida Grade specs, county legal status, maintenance schedule, and failure risks. Available to Professional subscribers.
Ask about Firebush
Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.