Plant of the Month – December 2025

The Red Flag Bush (Mussaenda erythrophylla) is a tropical ornamental shrub recognized for its bright red or pink bracts, which surround small yellow flowers and create the appearance of colorful “flags.” In South Florida—part of USDA Hardiness Zones 10A–11—the plant grows reliably thanks to warm temperatures, high humidity, and mild winters that allow it to remain evergreen.

This shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade, developing its best color and heaviest flowering with ample light. It adapts well to the region’s sandy and sometimes alkaline soils, provided the planting site drains well. While the red flag bush benefits from regular watering during establishment, it becomes moderately drought-tolerant over time. Fertilizing lightly during the growing season can support stronger growth and more consistent blooms.

Although the plant handles heat with ease, it may experience leaf drop or tip damage if exposed to frost. Gardeners in cooler pockets of South Florida often plant it near walls or sheltered areas to reduce cold exposure. Proper spacing is also important, as the shrub can reach several feet in height and spread, developing an open, somewhat airy structure. Flowering can occur for much of the year, especially during the warmer months, and the blooms attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. Light pruning helps maintain a tidy shape, while heavier structural pruning is best done in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth. With relatively few pest or disease concerns, the red flag bush serves as a dependable, low-maintenance addition to tropical and subtropical landscapes.