October's Flower of the Month

Firespike

Odontonema strictum

Firespike (Odontonema strictum) comes into its own at this time of year. Large, avocado like leaves adorn the plants all summer. In fall, 12-inch spikes with hundreds of one-inch, tubular bright red flowers almost smother the plants. The tips of some of the spikes flatten out and look almost like the old cocks’ combs (Celosia cristata) that I remember from childhood. We humans are not the only ones to notice the showy blossoms. Butterflies and hummingbirds zoom in for their share of the nectar.

Native to Central America, this attractive, compact shrub grows to about 4 feet tall in the garden. Shiny, bright green, oblong leaves grow to about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Even when not in bloom, it adds a tropical feel to the garden.

Firespike is one of those low-maintenance perennials that gardeners love to grow. All that is needed is a sprinkle of slow-release fertilizer around the base in early spring just as the new growth starts emerging. If slow-release fertilizers are not available, apply a light sprinkling of complete fertilizer such as 6-6-6 each month to six weeks during the growing season.                                               

Although firespike seems to prefer a site with moderate shade, it can be grown in full sun as long as it gets adequate moisture. It prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil, but like many of our plants, it can do with less if it has to. Moderately fertile, sandy soil is adequate.

The foliage gets killed most winters, but firespike is reliably root hardy throughout Florida and most of the Deep South. Internet discussion groups indicate that gardeners grow it in Shreveport, LA, and Mississippi gardeners report that it is hardy throughout the state. When freezing weather arrives, firespike will turn black and the limbs will die—unless you take cuttings before the frost sends it to the ground. After freezing weather, cut the blackened stems back to the ground. To protect the roots during the winter, scatter a bit of mulch over the crown. Recovery will be rapid the following spring. 

Firespike spreads slowly, but eventually it forms a clump two or three feet wide. While it is tolerant of a wide range of soils from acidic to slightly alkaline, it shows very little tolerance for salt. Propagation is easy from cuttings, seeds, or division of older clumps. 

Use this adaptable perennial in the landscape in several ways. Cluster several firespikes 3 to 4 feet apart as a backdrop or border for gardens, patios and walkways. Remember that the tops will not be present after the first frost, so site them near some hardy shrubs to avoid gaping holes in the winter landscape. Floral designers make good use of the colorful spikes in floral designs, and anyone can cut a few stems and put them in a vase of water to be enjoyed in the home.

Firespike can be planted at any time of the year in Florida. It will be available at Valparaiso Garden Club’s plant sale tomorrow at my house (166 Edge Avenue, Valparaiso.) From Niceville, turn right at Valparaiso’s only light. Go down Edge Avenue until you see the plant sale. We’ll all be there waiting for you.

Plan to buy firespike or any number of other perennials and annuals that garden clubbers have potted up to support our activities. The plants all grew in our gardens, and they are sure to grow well in yours, as well.

Click here for a list of plants in the archives.