cuphea
Cuphea llavea
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Stem Propagation,Layering Propagation,Division,Grafting Propagation,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
9 - 12
Flowers:
Purple with red petals Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Cuphea (Cuphea llavea) needs to be watered approximately once a week, or when the soil is dry to the touch. It likes even moisture and does not like to be too wet. If the soil feels too wet when touched, it is advised to wait until the soil has dried somewhat before watering again. During the summer months, when the weather is dry and hot, slightly more frequent waterings may be necessary.
sunlight
Cuphea plants (Cuphea llavea) thrive in areas with lots of bright, indirect sunlight. They require at least 4 hours of sunlight each day, but not more than 8 hours. Ideally, place them in a location that gets morning sun and is in partial or dappled shade during the heat of the day. When grown indoors, they should be placed in a south-, east-, or west-facing window to provide the right amount of light for flowering and growth. If additional light is needed, grow lights can be used to supplement the natural light.
pruning
Pruning of Cuphea llavea plants should be done yearly in late winter or early spring just before new growth begins. Pruning should be done lightly in order to maintain the desired size and shape of the plant, while also removing any dead, diseased or damaged branches. Care should be taken to not over-prune the plant, as this can lead to decreased flowering and bushiness. Any large branches should be pruned at the base, while smaller ones can be cut just above a leaf node. When pruning, it may be helpful to have a container to catch the prunings, as these can be used for propagation.
