Description
Form: Shrub.
Leaf retention: Evergreen except heavily damaged below 20°F (-6.6°C).
Growth rate: Moderate to rapid.
Mature Size: 3-4' (0.9-1.2m) high or prostrate, and 4-5' (1.2-1.5m) wide, depending on subspecies.
Flowers: Red, tubular, and fatter in the middle, with stamens that extend beyond its upper lip. The flowers have four short curled upper lips, and one longer curled lower lip. Some cultivars have yellow flowers.
Bloom: On and off throughout the year, including winter.
Fruit: A small capsule, fleshy or dried.
Leaves: Lance-shaped, glossy green to hairy and silver-green depending on subspecies.
Stems: No thorns.
Wildlife: The flowers attract hummingbirds. Birds and small mammals eat the fruit.
Toxic / Danger: No.
Origin: Australia.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 9-11.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full morning sun to light or part shade the afternoon. Avoid reflected heat and sun.
Planting: Locate this plant where the soil is well draining, and no closer than 6' (1.8m) to walls and windows which reflect the sun's heat. It should receive full morning sun. Light to part shade may be better in the afternoon than full sun.
Soil: Well draining, dry, low in organic content, pH 5.6-8.5 (acidic to alkaline).
Water once established: Once or twice a month.
Prune: Lightly, to shape, after flowering.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Cuttings. It is very difficult to grow these plants from seed.
Uses: Ornamental, low water (xeriscape) garden.

Comments
This species is a member of the Figwort family (Scrophulariaceae) and has eight subspecies. The pictures are of the subspecies E. Camosa, cultivar 'Winter Blaze'.

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