Native Plants
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Friday - June 23, 2006
From: Chisholm,, MN
Region: Midwest
Topic: Pruning, Shrubs
Title: Pruning of Hamelia patens, Firebush
Answered by: Joe Marcus and Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
I have a Hamelia Patens (Fire Bush) it says it will grow to 12 feet high and 5-6 feet across. Can I keep pruning it to about 5 feet without damaging the shrub?ANSWER:
Firebush (Hamelia patens) responds very well to pruning. The best time to prune is in late winter/early spring before it begins putting on new growth. The plant rarely grows to more than about 8' if left to its own devices, but I wouldn't be surprised to see 12-footers in ideal locations. Pruning in the summer will remove a lot of flower buds, but it can be done safely.
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