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Redhead

Hamelia patens

Last reviewed: August 2026

Redhead (Hamelia patens)
Photo: (c) Francisco Farriols Sarabia, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Francisco Farriols Sarabia

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

60"–144" H × 48"–96" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Native to

FL

Pollinators

hummingbirds, butterflies

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A fast-growing, multi-stemmed shrub with large glossy leaves and clusters of tubular orange-red flowers produced almost continuously in warm weather. It can become leggy without periodic pruning.

Wildlife value

Host plant for pluto sphinx moth.

The nearly year-round tubular flowers are a favorite hummingbird and butterfly nectar source, and the foliage hosts pluto sphinx moth caterpillars.

Common questions

How much sun does Redhead need?
Redhead grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Redhead bloom?
Redhead blooms in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November.
Where is Redhead native?
Redhead (Hamelia patens) is native to FL, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What butterflies or moths does Redhead host?
Redhead is a larval host plant for pluto sphinx moth.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Redhead? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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