The brightly colored flowers of this annual are small but plentiful.
Cuphea is a low-maintenance andheat-tolerant annualthat blooms from late spring until frost without needing deadheading.
In frost-free zones, it can be grown as a perennial.
Credit: Denny Schrock
While the flowers of this plant are small, they more than make up for their size in quantity.
Cuphea also attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Where to Plant Cuphea
Cuphea loves hot, sunny locations and well-drained soil.
Credit: Denny Schrock
However, during the hottest part of the afternoon, shade is preferable.
Cuphea is a fine addition to a garden bed or mixed containers.
In warm climates, cuphea is also grown as an evergreen shrub.
Credit: Denny Schrock
Itattracts hummingbirds, so it is a good addition to a pollinator garden.
In cold areas, move it inside for the winter and grow it as a houseplant.
Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
Credit: Denny Schrock
Backfill the hole and firm the soil to avoid air pockets.
Space plants 10 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety.
Full sun keeps cuphea (especially older varieties) from getting lanky and promotes the greatest number of blooms.
Credit: Andrew Drake
Place houseplants in a location where they receive ample sunlight, preferably from a south-facing window.
Soil and Water
While it prefers consistent moisture throughout the growing season, cuphea needswell-drained soil.
Soil that is too wet leads to root rot.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Once this plant is established, it tolerates drought.
For the amount to use, follow product label directions.
Pruning
Theresno need to deadheadthese plants.
Credit: Scott Little
Occasional pruning or pinching in late spring encourages a flush of new growth and keeps the plant well-maintained.
Cuphea is a fast grower and may need pruning to keep it tidy indoors.
When grown as an annual, cuphea doesnt need repotting.
Credit: Lynn Karlin
Otherwise, repot it every spring once it outgrows its pot.
Opt for a container one size larger and fill it with fresh potting mix.
Pests and Problems
In general, cuphea plants are pest-resistant.
Credit: Blaine Moats
They are occasionally bothered byJapanese beetles.
Capture the pests in traps or collect them by hand and drop them in soapy water.
If you findwhiteflies and aphidson the plants, treat them with insecticidal soap orneem oil.
Credit: Kim Cornelison
How to Propagate Cuphea
Most gardeners choose nursery plants when they add cuphea to their gardens.
Cuphea can also be propagated withstem cuttings.
Dip the bottom of the cutting in arooting powderand insert it into a sterile soilless planting medium.
Credit: Justin Hancock
Place the pot in a bright, warm location.
When you see new leaves growing, move the seedling to a pot withnutrient-rich soil.
Types of Cuphea
Cuphea comes in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and flower sizes.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Many of these flowers feature large modified petals that give the appearance of ears.
It blooms all season long.
Zones 9-11
Totally Tempted Mouse Flower
Cuphea llaveaTotally Tempted bears large crimson-pink flowers on 12-inch-tall plants.
Zones 9-11
Mexican Heather
Cuphea hyssopifoliabears lavender-pink flowers on plants growing 2 feet tall.
It blooms continuously all season long for an amazing display of color.
It is a great performer in hot, sunny spots.
If it gets enough light indoors, it will flower on and off all year.
Lantana
If you have a hot, baked spot,lantanais your answer.
This hardworking plant thrives with little moisture and in full sun.
Its easy to grow and a great choice for containers.
In frost-free climates (Zones 9-11), its also an excellent perennial groundcover.
Put a cluster of these bodacious beauties in the back of the border to give it height and drama.
Many of the taller types need staking to keep them upright.
Plant them outdoors after all danger of frost has passed in a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fast-growing cuphea plants reach their full height within weeks.
As annuals, they die at first frost unless they are containerized and brought inside.
Similarly, rabbits tend not to munch on cuphea when they have other options.
Expect cuphea blooms three to six months after sowing seeds, depending on the variety.
Most cuphea plants bloom until frost.
