The Story
Plant Bio
Bouvardia ternifolia, also known as the red bouvardia, is a perennial that produces clusters of tubular red flowers and has glossy, dark green leaves.
This species is notable for its vibrant red flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators, making it a popular choice for gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
30 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Mexico and Central America
Toxicity
May cause skin irritation
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring, keeping soil moist.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and root in 6 weeks.
- Position in full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
- Water consistently, allowing soil to dry slightly between watering.
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth.
Pro Tip
Use a well-draining soil mix and provide bright indirect light for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape the plant
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth
- Provide full sun to partial shade
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune during dormancy
- Keep away from heavy, clay soils that retain water
- Avoid exposing to frost
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Scarlet Bouvardia questions
What zones can Scarlet Bouvardia grow in?
Scarlet Bouvardia is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Scarlet Bouvardia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Scarlet Bouvardia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Scarlet Bouvardia bloom?
Scarlet Bouvardia typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Scarlet Bouvardia need full sun?
Scarlet Bouvardia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Scarlet Bouvardia drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Scarlet Bouvardia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Scarlet Bouvardia with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.