Cuphea is a diverse genus with over 200 species, prized for their colourful, long-lasting flowers and compact, mound-forming growth. Popular across warm climates, these evergreen perennials are ideal for garden borders, rockeries, containers, and pollinator-friendly spaces. They’re also grown as annuals in cooler climates.
Among the most well-known species are:
- Cuphea hyssopifolia – often grown as a low hedge, with fine foliage and purple to white flowers.
- Cuphea mexicana – known as Mexican Heather, this compact species is great for edging.
- Cuphea llavea – commonly called ‘Tiny Mice’ or ‘Bat-Faced Cuphea,’ with vivid red, purple, and orange flowers that resemble little bat faces or mouse ears.
Three Cuphea Varieties to look for :
- C. hyssopifolia will reach around 50 cm in height, evergreen and long flowering.Flower colour varies from purples to white.Easily pruned to shape and size.
- C. mexicana will reach around 40 cm in height and is mainly grown in a the compact form. Again flowers are mauve or white.
- C. llavea is the species with the colourful flowers,orange, red purple and white. The flowers are said to resemble mouse ears or a bat face. It is low growing to around 4o cms, evergreen and particularly showy, especially the red and purple flowering variety. Excellent in the garden, containers or a hanging basket.
Other to look for C. lanceolata ‘Purple Passion’(Bat Faced)
Cuphea Care
All Cuphea species prefer warm climates, full sun, and well-drained, humus-rich soil. In very hot regions, some afternoon shade can prevent stress.
- Soil: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0) and enriched with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
- Watering: Water deeply but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
- Mulching: Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Feeding: Use a slow-release balanced fertiliser (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) in spring and again mid-season.
Pruning and Maintenance
Cuphea, particularly C. hyssopifolia and C. llavea, benefit from light tip pruning after flowering to keep a tidy shape.
- Deadheading (removing spent blooms) encourages further flowering.
- More thorough pruning can be done in early spring to refresh the plant.
Propagation
Propagation is easy via stem cuttings. Take 10–15 cm cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in a mix of peat moss and perlite. Keep moist until roots develop.
Pest and Disease Watch
Cuphea are generally resilient, but they can attract:
- Aphids – Wash off with water or treat with insecticidal soap.
- Powdery mildew – Prevent with good airflow and avoid overhead watering.
Creative Landscape Uses
- Use C. hyssopifolia for low hedgingor edging formal gardens.
- Plant Tiny Mice (C. llavea) in containers, hanging baskets, or mass plantings** for bold colour and pollinator appeal.
- Pair Cuphea with salvias, verbenas, or ornamental grasses for vibrant, textural combinations.
- Suitable for balconies, cottage gardens, or sunny patios
- Also suited to growing in the garden border, cottage garden, rock garden or in a container on a sunny balcony.
Where To Buy
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