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Scarlet Bouvardia

Bouvardia ternifolia

Last reviewed: June 2026

Scarlet Bouvardia (Bouvardia ternifolia)
Photo: Kurt Stüber [1] / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Light

part sun

Water

low

Size

36"–60" H × 24"–36" W

Bloom

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

Native to

AZ, NM, TX

Pollinators

hummingbirds

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Scarlet Bouvardia is a medium-sized native shrub that produces clusters of bright red tubular flowers from spring through fall. This deciduous plant thrives in partial sun with minimal water requirements once established. The long blooming season and compact growth habit make it an attractive addition to Texas landscapes.

In an HOA neighborhood

Scarlet Bouvardia takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Insufficient data for HOA assessment

Wildlife value

The bright red tubular flowers are specifically adapted to attract hummingbirds, providing an excellent nectar source throughout most of the growing season. The extended bloom period from March through November makes this plant particularly valuable for supporting hummingbird migration and year-round residents.

Common questions

How much sun does Scarlet Bouvardia need?
Scarlet Bouvardia grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Scarlet Bouvardia bloom?
Scarlet Bouvardia blooms in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November.
Where is Scarlet Bouvardia native?
Scarlet Bouvardia (Bouvardia ternifolia) is native to AZ, NM, TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Scarlet Bouvardia attract?
Scarlet Bouvardia draws hummingbirds.
Is Scarlet Bouvardia HOA-friendly?
Scarlet Bouvardia takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Scarlet Bouvardia fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.