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Description
Odontonema Cuspidatum, also known as Firespike, is a tropical flowering plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. This evergreen shrub is native to Central and South America, where it grows in the understory of rainforests. Firespike is a popular garden plant due to its vibrant red flowers, which bloom from late summer to fall. The plant can grow up to 8 feet tall and 4 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for a bold statement in the landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Odontonema |
| Species | Cuspidatum |
Appearance
Firespike has glossy, dark green leaves that can grow up to 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. The leaves are arranged in an opposite pattern on the stem and have a lanceolate shape. The plant’s flowers grow in dense, upright spikes that can reach up to 12 inches in length. The flowers are tubular and have a bright red color, with four petals that open at the tips. The stamens and pistils of the flowers protrude from the tube, making them visible and attractive to pollinators. The plant’s fruit is a small capsule that contains tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Firespike is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in warm, humid climates. Here are some tips for caring for your firespike:Water: Firespike prefers consistently moist soil, so water regularly to keep the soil damp but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every two months during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering.Soil: Firespike grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Firespike prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can tolerate full shade.Hardiness Zones: Firespike is hardy in USDA zones 10-11, but it can also be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Firespike is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs. To prevent infestations, keep the plant’s leaves clean and free of dust and debris. If you do notice pests, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Firespike can also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet, so be sure to avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Firespike is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, where it grows in the understory of rainforests. The plant prefers warm, humid climates and can be found in moist, well-draining soil. Firespike is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its vibrant flowers and low-maintenance requirements.
Question and Answer
Q: Can firespike be grown indoors?
A: Firespike can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location, but it may not flower as profusely as it would outdoors.Q: How often should firespike be pruned?
A: Firespike can be pruned as needed to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged growth. Pruning should be done in the spring or fall.Q: Do firespike flowers attract hummingbirds?
A: Yes, firespike flowers are attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators.Q: Is firespike deer-resistant?
A: Firespike is not deer-resistant and may be eaten by deer if planted in their habitat.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are related to firespike:- Thunbergia erecta- Justicia brandegeana- Ruellia tuberosa- Strobilanthes dyerianus- Pseuderanthemum reticulatum
References
– “Odontonema cuspidatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?taxonid=281846&isprofile=0&letter=o.- “Firespike.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/firespike.html.- “Odontonema cuspidatum.” Floridata. https://floridata.com/Plants/Acanthaceae/Odontonema+cuspidatum/1021.
