Categories: Acanthaceae

Fiery spike (Aphelandra aurantiaca, Edwards’s Bot. Reg. 31: t. 12 (1845))

Family: Acanthaceae

Author: (Scheidw.) Lindl.

Bibliography: Edwards’s Bot. Reg. 31: t. 12 (1845)

Year: 1845

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Aphelandra

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. Mexico to S. Trop. America

Description

The Fiery Spike, scientifically known as Aphelandra aurantiaca, is a striking plant captivating botanists and horticulturists alike with its vivid appearance and intriguing origin. Known for its vibrant orange-red inflorescences, this plant is a member of the Acanthaceae family, a group renowned for its diverse and decorative species.

Originally cited in Edwards’s Botanical Register in 1845, Aphelandra aurantiaca was formally described by the botanists Scheidweiler and later detailed by Lindley. The species thrives naturally in a region extending from Central Mexico to Southern Tropical America. In these locales, the plant’s brilliant spikes can often be seen adding a splash of color to the lush tropical landscape.

The Fiery Spike is highly prized in ornamental horticulture due to its flamboyant flowering spikes, which make it a standout in any garden or indoor plant collection. Its growth habit typically involves lush, dark green foliage that contrasts beautifully with the fiery inflorescences, enhancing its visual appeal.

Understanding the conditions where Aphelandra aurantiaca originates can be vital for successful cultivation. Native to humid, tropical environments, it prospers best in well-drained soil with consistent moisture and good light, mimicking the understory shade of its native habitat. This resilient adaptability makes it a desirable choice for plant enthusiasts looking to bring a touch of the tropics into their own environments.

The Fiery Spike symbolizes the rich biodiversity found in tropical ecosystems and serves as a reminder of the exotic beauty inherent in these regions. Whether admired in the wild or cultivated in botanical collections, Aphelandra aurantiaca continues to stir curiosity and admiration for its stunning floral display and distinctive presence.

Common Names

Eng: fiery spike
En: Fiery spike

Synonyms

Hemisandra aurantiaca (Scheidw.)

Distribution

Belize (native)
Bolivia (native)
Brazil North (native)
Colombia (native)
Costa Rica (native)
Ecuador (native)
French Guiana (native)
Guatemala (native)
Guyana (native)
Honduras (native)
Mexico Central (native)
Mexico Gulf (native)
Mexico Southeast (native)
Mexico Southwest (native)
Nicaragua (native)
Panamá (native)
Peru (native)
Suriname (native)
Venezuela (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 1, 1995 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 25, 2004 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 27, 2021 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 26, 2022 by Maximilian Petre (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2004 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)