Hummingbird Bush (Hamelia): A Shrub That Attracts Pollinators, Not Rashes

Hummingbird Bush (Hamelia): A Shrub That Attracts Pollinators, Not Rashes

A gardener had a mysterious bush and wondered if it caused a recent rash or if it was detergent.

Mystery plant

Expert Identification

The bush is likely a hummingbird bush (Hamelia sp.). The expert didn't think it caused the rash and attached a photo of it in flower. Hamelia species have been used to treat skin rashes. Many plants can cause rashes (fig, hog parsley, lantana, poinsettia, stinging nettle, rosehips, maple seed pods), but this one is unlikely. The expert advised looking for a more likely cause.

Hummingbird bush