Mohintli: A Colorful Addition to Warm-Climate Gardens
If you’re looking for a splash of vibrant color to attract hummingbirds to your garden, you might want to consider mohintli (Justicia spicigera). This perennial herbaceous plant brings a tropical flair to landscapes with its eye-catching orange-red flowers and hummingbird-friendly blooms.
What is Mohintli?
Mohintli is a non-native perennial forb that has established itself in parts of Florida and Hawaii. Originally from Mexico and Central America, this plant has found its way into American gardens where it thrives in warm climates. As a forb, it’s an herbaceous plant without woody stems, making it quite different from shrubs or trees in your landscape.
Where Does It Grow?
Currently, mohintli has naturalized in Florida and Hawaii, where the warm, subtropical conditions mirror its native habitat. It reproduces on its own in these areas and has become part of the local flora.
Why Gardeners Love (and Sometimes Question) Mohintli
There are several reasons why mohintli catches gardeners’ attention:
- Stunning orange to red tubular flowers that bloom for extended periods
- Excellent for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden
- Relatively easy to grow in the right conditions
- Adds tropical character to landscape designs
- Works well as an accent plant or in hummingbird gardens
However, since mohintli isn’t native to the United States, some gardeners prefer to choose native alternatives that provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems.
Growing Mohintli Successfully
If you decide to grow mohintli, here’s what you need to know:
Climate Requirements
Mohintli thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, making it suitable for gardeners in the warmest parts of the country. If you live in a borderline zone, you’ll need to provide frost protection or grow it as an annual.
Light and Soil Needs
This adaptable plant does well in partial shade to full sun conditions. It prefers well-draining soil but isn’t particularly fussy about soil type as long as water doesn’t sit around the roots.
Watering and Care
- Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells
- Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
- Prune occasionally to maintain shape and encourage blooming
- In cooler zones, protect from frost or bring container plants indoors
Garden Design Ideas
Mohintli works beautifully in several garden settings:
- Tropical and subtropical landscape designs
- Hummingbird and butterfly gardens
- Container gardens on patios or decks
- Mixed perennial borders for color contrast
- Accent plantings near seating areas where you can enjoy visiting hummingbirds
Consider Native Alternatives
While mohintli can be a lovely addition to warm-climate gardens, consider these native alternatives that offer similar hummingbird appeal:
- Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) – striking red blooms
- Coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) – native vine with tubular flowers
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) – attracts both hummingbirds and butterflies
- Trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans) – vigorous native vine with orange-red flowers
The Bottom Line
Mohintli can be a delightful addition to gardens in warm climates, especially if you’re passionate about attracting hummingbirds. While it’s not native to the United States, it hasn’t been flagged as particularly problematic in areas where it grows. Just remember to be a thoughtful gardener by also incorporating native plants that support local wildlife and ecosystems. Whether you choose mohintli or a native alternative, your hummingbirds will thank you for the colorful blooms!
