Embothrium coccineum (Chilean Fire Bush)

This exotic looking upward growing tree can rapidly outgrow its planting location, especially if planted in smaller gardens. The tree is covered in masses of vivid red blossom in early summer. During flowering it becomes the standout plant in any garden; but the foliage is also of interest; however the upward habit can cause problems with planting schemes.

This fast growing tree needs a premium sheltered spot in the garden to really flourish. It prefers an acidic soil will also benefit from a deep lime free fertile yet well drained soil, being ideal in a sheltered yet sunny woodland spot where it will benefit from occasional mulching with well rotted compost.

Strengths of Embothrium coccineum:

• Ideal for fast growing screening
• Evergreen foliage for all year round colour and screening
• Architectural plant – ideal as a ‘stand out’ plant

Weaknesses of Embothrium coccineum

• Tender exotic suitable only for very mild areas
• Will not tolerate exposed, cold or hot and sunny locations
• Does not tolerate very dry or very wet soils

Design & Plant Use for Embothrium coccineum:

• Fast growing evergreen plant ideal for screening

View all the plants listed in Genus Embothrium

View other shrubs with red flowers, or shrubs with medium green foliage