blue waxweed
Cuphea viscosissima
Cycle:
Annual
Watering:
Average
Hardiness Zone:
6 - 9
Flowers:
Purple to purplish-red Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Blue waxweed should be watered once a week, or when soil is dry to the touch, at a rate of about 1 inch of water per session. Be sure not to overwater, as this can cause root rot. During the hot summer months, you may have to water more frequently – approximately every 4-5 days – as the soil can dry out quickly due the heat. During the cooler months, you can reduce your watering frequency to every 10-14 days.
sunlight
Blue waxweed plants prefer at least 4 hours of direct sun each day. They do best in partial sun, meaning in an area with both direct and filtered sun throughout the day. During the hottest part of the day, around midday, they may prefer a bit of shade or indirect filtered sunlight.
pruning
Blue waxweed can be pruned throughout the growing season to retain a neat and tidy overall shape. Light pruning in early spring will help maintain an even shape and encourage vigorous, bushy growth. Pruning of old stems and dead flowers should be done in late summer or early fall to keep the plant looking tidy. Avoid heavy pruning as this may reduce flowering. When pruning, always use sharp, sterilized pruning shears to ensure clean cuts and prevent spread of diseases.