Flame acanthus is a small deciduous shrub native to dry habitats of southwest Texas and Northern Mexico. Moisture conditions regulates its size; more water results in larger plants with an upright habit 3-4 ft. tall and as wide. A showy display of brilliant orange-red flowers occur in early spring. Nurseries most often grow cultivars including A. q. var. wrightii ‘Mexican Fire’ that grow 4-5 ft. tall, have larger leaves and red flowers.
Flame acanthus is a colorful addition to southwestern style landscapes where its bright flowers creates a lot of attention. It grows best in well drained soils, in sunny locations and with limited summer irrigation. By late fall it drops its leaves and is sparse in character; heavy pruning is recommended to stimulate robust spring growth and flowering value.
