Firecracker bush facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Firecracker bush |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Scientific classification |
The firecracker bush, also known as Bouvardia ternifolia, is a beautiful shrub famous for its bright red, tube-shaped flowers. It gets its common name because its flowers look a bit like tiny firecrackers ready to burst! This plant is found naturally in many parts of Mexico, stretching south into Honduras and north into the southwestern United States. You can spot it in places like Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
Contents
What is the Firecracker Bush?
The firecracker bush is a type of shrub. It can grow up to about 120 centimeters (which is about 4 feet) tall. This makes it a medium-sized plant that fits well in many gardens.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of the firecracker bush are dark green. They are shaped like a narrow egg. But the most exciting part of this plant is its flowers!
- The flowers are very eye-catching.
- They are long and shaped like tubes.
- They are a vibrant scarlet red color.
- Each flower can be up to 10 centimeters (about 2 inches) long.
- These amazing flowers grow in pretty clusters at the very ends of the branches.
Nature's Visitors
Hummingbirds absolutely love the firecracker bush. They often visit the blooms to drink the sweet nectar inside the long, tubular flowers. This is a great example of how plants and animals help each other in nature!
Where Does the Firecracker Bush Grow?
The firecracker bush is found in many different places. Its natural home is mainly in Mexico. From there, it spreads south into Honduras. It also grows north into the southwestern United States. In the U.S., you can find it in states like Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
Why Do People Grow Firecracker Bushes?
People love to plant the firecracker bush in their gardens. It is widely grown as an ornamental plant. This means it's grown because it's beautiful and adds color to yards and parks. Its showy, bright red flowers make it a popular choice for gardeners who want to attract hummingbirds or simply enjoy a vibrant plant.
Images for kids
-
A close-up of the firecracker bush flowers.
-
Another view of the bright red flowers.
