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Fire-flame bush

Woodfordia fruticosa
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Woodfordia fruticosa (Fire-flame bush) — botanical photograph
Pl. 9A0F — Woodfordia fruticosa
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I

Overview

Fire-flame bush, scientifically known as Woodfordia fruticosa, is a shrub native to a wide range of regions including Assam, Bangladesh, China (South-Central and Southeast), Comoros, East Himalaya, India, Jawa, Laos, Lesser Sunda Islands, Madagascar, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Sulawesi, Tanzania, Thailand, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can grow up to 5 meters tall and is known for its edible flowers, which can be used in various culinary applications. The fire-flame bush is valued both ornamentally and as a source of food in its native range. Cultivation is straightforward, requiring well-drained, moist soil and full sun. While the plant is not medicinal, it is useful for its dye, fire starter, gum, mordant, soil conditioner, erosion control, tannin, and coppice properties. It is hardy in zones 10-12 and can be propagated using its flowers. The plant's adaptability and ornamental value make it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Fire-flame bush?

Fire-flame bush, scientifically known as Woodfordia fruticosa, is a shrub native to a wide range of regions including Assam, Bangladesh, China (South-Central and Southeast), Comoros, East Himalaya, India, Jawa, Laos, Lesser Sunda Islands, Madagascar, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Phi

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Fire-flame bush thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12 and grows to a height of about 5 meters. For propagation, use the flowers as an edible part. Ensure the plant has adequate moisture while maintaining well-drained conditions to prevent root rot.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
5.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Fire-flame bush for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple Fire-flame bush and focus on basic care for the first year.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A Fire-flame bush plant, garden gloves, and a trowel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when temperatures are warm and stable.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants from nursery pots to your garden bed after the last frost.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun, regular watering, and occasional pruning to maintain shape. Watch for signs of overwatering or underwatering.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter to early spring to encourage new growth and remove any dead or damaged branches.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, neglecting regular pruning, using unsuitable soil types, and not providing enough support for the plant's height.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: Drink, Gum
Other uses:DyeFire starterGumMordantSoil conditionerErosion controlTanninCoppice
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

21 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 21 native
Asia12 regions
native (12)BangladeshChinaIndiaLaosMyanmarNepalPakistanPhilippinesSaudi ArabiaSri LankaThailandVietnam
Africa3 regions
native (3)ComorosMadagascarTanzania
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Sulawesi
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Woodfordia fruticosa (Fire-flame bush) — botanical photograph
Fire-flame bush (Woodfordia fruticosa)
XI

Explore further

Growing zone
XII

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