Light. Full sun gives the most flowers. It will grow in part shade, but blooms less.
Water. Water regularly while it establishes. Once settled it is moderately drought tolerant, so water during long dry spells.
Soil and feeding. Firespike handles slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil, sandy or loamy. Space plants 24–36 inches apart.
Size. Grows to about 4 ft; established clumps can reach 6 ft. Mass it at the back of a bed.
Pruning. If it gets too tall, cut it back several times during the growing season. It blooms on new growth.
Problems to watch. It is generally pest and disease free. Whiteflies can cause damage.
Good to know. In South Florida it blooms year-round and draws hummingbirds and butterflies. A hard freeze kills top growth, but it usually returns. It reseeds, so pull unwanted seedlings.
Sources: UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Firespike · NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Odontonema (firespike)
