Contents
Description
Odontonema, also known as Firespike, is a genus of flowering plants in the Acanthaceae family. It is native to Central and South America and is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its bright red flowers that bloom in the fall and winter months. The plant is known for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a popular choice for gardeners who want to attract wildlife to their gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Odontonema |
Appearance
Odontonema is a shrub that can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has dark green, glossy leaves that are about 6 inches long and 2 inches wide. The plant produces long, tubular flowers that are bright red and about 1 inch long. The flowers bloom on spikes that can be up to 12 inches long and are produced in the fall and winter months. The plant produces seeds that are small and black.
Care Guide
Odontonema is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Odontonema prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Odontonema prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Odontonema prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Odontonema is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Odontonema is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized. If an infestation occurs, treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Odontonema is native to Central and South America and is found in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, woodlands, and savannas. It grows best in warm, humid environments with well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Odontonema tolerate cold temperatures?
A: No, Odontonema is not cold-hardy and should be grown in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Q: How often should I fertilize Odontonema?
A: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can I grow Odontonema in a container?
A: Yes, Odontonema can be grown in a container as long as it has plenty of room for its roots to grow and is kept well-watered and fertilized.
Q: Does Odontonema attract hummingbirds?
A: Yes, Odontonema is known for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden.
Related Plants
- Justicia brandegeana
- Justicia carnea
- Justicia spicigera
- Thunbergia erecta
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Odontonema. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d527
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Odontonema strictum. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp174
- Gardening Know How. (2021). Firespike Plant Care – How To Grow Odontonema Plants. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/firespike-plant-care.htm
