Starter Plant from Odontonema callistachyum Purple Firespike. It produces long lasting spikes of purple flowers. It can grow from 5-6 feet tall. In the more tropical regions this Mexico/Central America native can reach 15 feet. Will probably prove root hardy in zone 8 if base mounded with sand, and mulched in late fall. Its culture and landscape value is the same as red firespike in that it is a marvelous hummingbird attractor and a beautiful foliage plant when not in bloom. The only difference between the two Fire Spikes is that this variety blooms in early spring through early summer. It prefers partial shade, but will do well in full sun. Keep soil evenly moist, but not too wet. Zones 8-11