Date: Mon, 22 Jul 2002 21:24:30 -0500
Reply-To: BB for Hummingbirds and Gardening for them in the Southeast <HUMNET-L@LISTSERV.LSU.EDU>
From: BB for Hummingbirds and Gardening for them in the Southeast <HUMNET-L@LISTSERV.LSU.EDU>
Subject: Re: [HUMNET-L] "Mexican Honeysuckle" at Naylor's

Justicia spicigera -- a.k.a. Mexican Honeysuckle -- is a good hummingbird
plant. A solid, mature stand of this plant will bloom for extended periods
of time. In areas with mild winters they might even bloom year round. They
do best in part shade and are somewhat drought tolerant, but extra water
during prolonged dry periods is certainly beneficial. Here in Dallas (zone
8a) they are root hardy to the mid to upper teens. But a hard freeze kills
them right to the ground. I have mine planted against the house, facing due
south, which affords them extra protection. I haven't noticed any insect or
disease problems which is another plus. Justicia spicigera even does well
in a large pot. The version I have has bright orange blooms but I've seen
another variety with flowers that were more red-orange in color. Both
attract hummingbirds just as well.

Howard Williams
Dallas, Texas