The Hummingbird Bush (Anisacanthus quadrifidus or Wright Acanthus) is a deciduous shrub known for its vibrant, tubular flowers. These striking red or orange blooms appear from mid-summer into fall, effectively attracting hummingbirds. Valued for its low-maintenance nature, it is a desirable addition to many gardens.
Ideal Growing Conditions
The Hummingbird Bush thrives in full sun, needing at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for the most abundant blooms. While it can tolerate partial shade, too much shade will result in fewer flowers.
This plant is highly adaptable to various well-draining soil types, including sandy, loamy, and even heavy clay. Proper drainage is important to prevent root issues, so amending poorly drained areas with perlite or sand can be beneficial. The Hummingbird Bush is a resilient plant, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 11, and is particularly tolerant of heat and drought once established.
Planting Your Hummingbird Bush
Selecting the right location is the first step, ensuring the site receives sufficient sunlight and has well-draining soil. Prepare the planting hole by digging it twice as wide as the plant’s root ball and about as deep. This wider hole allows the roots to spread easily into the surrounding soil.
If your soil has poor drainage, incorporate organic matter like compost, or inorganic amendments such as perlite or coarse sand, into the excavated soil to improve its structure. Carefully remove the Hummingbird Bush from its container, gently loosening any circling roots. Place the plant in the center of the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding ground. Backfill the hole with the amended soil, lightly tamp it down to remove large air pockets, and then water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Routine Care and Maintenance
Once established, the Hummingbird Bush demonstrates notable drought tolerance, requiring minimal supplemental watering. During its first growing season, deep weekly watering is beneficial to help the plant establish a strong root system. After this initial period, established plants generally only need watering during extended dry spells or periods of high heat to encourage continued blooming. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization needs for the Hummingbird Bush are typically minimal, as it thrives even in less nutrient-rich soils. If desired, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a layer of compost can be applied in early spring to support growth and flowering. Applying a one-inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant in early spring and again in the fall can help suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and regulate soil temperature. Regularly clearing spent blooms, while not strictly necessary for plant health, can contribute to a tidier appearance.
Pruning Techniques
Pruning the Hummingbird Bush helps maintain its shape, promotes bushier growth, and encourages a more abundant display of flowers. The optimal time for significant pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins to emerge. During this period, you can cut the plant back by about one-third to two-thirds of its size to encourage vigorous new shoots from the base. This encourages a denser, more compact form rather than a leggy appearance.
Throughout the growing season, light pruning can be performed as needed to remove any dead, damaged, or unruly branches. Using clean, sharp pruning shears is important to make precise cuts and minimize stress on the plant. Removing spent flowers, known as deadheading, can also encourage a longer blooming period.
Addressing Common Issues and Winter Prep
The Hummingbird Bush is generally a resilient plant with few significant pest or disease problems. The primary concern for this plant often relates to improper watering, specifically overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Ensuring well-draining soil and allowing the soil to dry between waterings can prevent this issue.
For gardeners in USDA hardiness zones 7 and below, the Hummingbird Bush may die back to the ground during winter frosts. However, its hardy root system will regrow in the spring. In these colder regions, applying a thick layer of mulch over the root zone in late fall can provide additional insulation and protection, ensuring the plant’s return with warmer temperatures.