Species cuphea
purple-red flowers and green leaves with green veins on a yellow-green stem

cuphea

Cuphea llavea

Cuphea llavea, commonly known as cigar plant, is an amazing plant species with great decorative features. This tropical perennial has attractive, dark green deep lance-shaped leaves, and it produces colorful flowers with smokelike shapes all year round. Its many unique features make it an excellent addition to any garden. It is very low maintenance and requires minimal attention, thriving in both sunny and partially shaded areas. These vibrant flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators, making it an ideal habitat for local wildlife. Additionally, cuphea is hardy and resilient to diseases and pests, thus requiring little to no chemical protection if cared for properly. All in all, cuphea llavea is a must have for any garden enthusiast due to its striking beauty and resilient nature.

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.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Cuphea llavea typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Cuphea llavea typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Hardiness Map