Bottlebrush

Bright, brush-like flower spikes give this evergreen shrub its name and its cheerful character. Hummingbirds and bees swarm the nectar-rich blooms, bringing movement to warm-climate gardens. It makes an attractive hedge, screen, or specimen, and in cold regions it grows well in large containers that move indoors for winter. Heat and dry spells pose little trouble once plants are established. Sprinkle the fine seed over the surface of a warm mix and it usually sprouts without any special treatment.