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CupheaFamily: Lythraceae.
| Cuphea ignea |
Common name(s): Elfin herb, False heather, Hawaiian heather, Cygar flower |
Cuphea hyssopifolia |
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Genus of about 250 species of annuals, short-lived, sometimes subshrubby evergreen perennials, and evergreen shrubs, from woodland clearings and pasture in S.E. US, Mexico, and subtropical and tropical Central and South America. These shrubby, low-growing, heat-loving perennials have finely textured leaves and flowers. Their brightly colored tubular flowers bloom generously in summer. They look like tiny cigars or firecrackers in purple, red or white with white or green tips. Native to Mexico and Guatemala, they are hardy in warm winter areas. Pinch growing tips for compact growth, and cut older plants back. Water during growing/blooming season, keeping soil evenly moist.
Cuphea ignea is a 1 ft. high bush bearing flowers from spring to autumn. Cigar Flower gets its common name from the long, tubular flowers. These are tipped with black and white which provides the ash on the cigar. Provide exposure to sun or partial shade.
Cuphea hyssopifolia ranges from 1-3' tall with tiny lavender, purple, or white flowers and is a useful in the garden, landscape and containers. |
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| Growing conditions |
Watering and misting |
Propagation |
| Average warmth in summer - minimum 60 F in winter.Brightly lit spot or some direct sun. Grow in soil-based potting mix. |
Keep compost moist at all times but never waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter. Use soft, tepid water. Misting is necessary. |
Propagate by seed or cuttings. Take stem cuttings in spring. Sow seed at 55-61 F (13-16 C) in early spring. |
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Copyright © Galka Okhapkina 1998-2024
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