Bells Of Fire

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 4-6 feet
Spread: 2-5 feet
Flower Color: bright-red to orange
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Bells of Fire (Tecoma 'Bells of Fire') – A Bold and Drought-Tolerant Shrub for Arizona Gardens

Bells of Fire, scientifically known as Tecoma 'Bells of Fire', is a hardy, low-maintenance shrub that brings tropical flair to Arizona landscapes with its vibrant red-orange flowers and compact growth habit. Ideal for the hot and arid climate, this plant is both visually striking and ecologically beneficial, attracting pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies.

Key Features of Bells of Fire

1. Fiery Red-Orange Flowers
   The hallmark of Bells of Fire is its profusion of trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of bold red-orange. These blooms create a stunning contrast against green foliage, providing a continuous color display from spring through fall. The bright flowers also attract hummingbirds and butterflies, enhancing your garden's biodiversity and adding lively movement.

2. Compact and Upright Growth
   Reaching 4 to 6 feet in height and spread, Bells of Fire has a well-balanced, upright form that works well in a variety of landscape settings. This moderate size makes it ideal for borders, foundation plantings, or as an eye-catching focal point in the garden.

3. Drought Tolerance and Low Maintenance
   Well-adapted to Arizona’s desert climate, Bells of Fire is drought-tolerant once established, making it a great option for water-wise landscaping. It performs best in full sun and requires minimal watering, thriving in well-drained soil.

Growing and Maintenance Tips

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun, which helps produce the most vibrant flowers.
• Soil: Thrives in well-drained soils and tolerates a range of soil types.
• Watering: Water deeply but infrequently once established, making it a great choice for xeriscaping.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after the blooming season to shape the plant and remove any dead or overgrown branches.

Landscape Uses

Bells of Fire’s fiery color and structured growth make it versatile for various landscape applications:

• Accent Plant: Use as a focal point to add tropical color to the garden.
• Borders and Foundation Plantings: Works well in borders and around the house as a decorative shrub.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, making it perfect for pollinator-friendly landscapes.

Benefits of Choosing Bells of Fire

This shrub combines beauty and resilience, thriving in Arizona’s desert environment with minimal maintenance. Its drought tolerance, stunning red-orange blooms, and compact form make it a practical and eye-catching choice for homeowners looking to add color without high water needs. The attraction to pollinators also makes it an eco-friendly addition.

Summary

Bells of Fire is an excellent choice for Arizona landscapes, offering intense color, drought tolerance, and a low-maintenance nature. Its red-orange blooms, moderate size, and pollinator-friendly attributes make it a versatile and vibrant addition to gardens, adding both aesthetic and ecological value to the desert environment.