Species cupflower
lavender flowers with yellow-purple center, olive-green leaves and stems

cupflower

Nierembergia scoparia

The cupflower (Nierembergia scoparia) is a species of low herbaceous perennial native to the temperate regions of South America. It blooms in summer, bearing a profusion of small star-shaped flowers in shades of purple and violet. The foliage has a grey-green hue and grows in carpet-like mats that provide great ground cover for gardens and pots. It is drought-tolerant and prefers light to moderate shade. It can be planted in groupings or containers for beautiful displays in garden borders and pathways. It is a short lived, low maintenance plant that is perfect for adding a splash of vibrant color to any outdoor space.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division

Hardiness Zone:

7 - 10

Flowers:

Pale blue Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Cupflower should be watered when the top inch of the soil is dry. Depending on the moisture of the soil, temperature, and how much light the plant is receiving you may need to water once every 5-7 days. For best results, water the plant deeply but infrequently. Be sure to water the soil near the base of the plant, rather than the foliage, to avoid fungal diseases.

sunlight

Cupflower (Nierembergia scoparia) requires bright sunlight for optimum growth and blooming. It should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. To ensure the plant stays healthy, it is important to provide consistent sun exposure. When placed in a location that receives too much shade, the plant may become spindly and lack adequate blooms. When exposed to too much sunlight, the leaves of cupflower may scorch or dry out. In order to avoid this, the plant should be placed in a location that receives morning sun and some shade in the afternoon. This will ensure ample sunlight while also providing some protection from too much direct sunlight.

pruning

Cupflower should be pruned in late spring or early summer. Prune off dead and diseased stems, and remove any branches that are competing with the main stems. Prune off any stems that are growing in an awkward direction, as well as any stems that are past their flowering period. Cut back stems to the ground level, but avoid cutting into living tissue. Pruning off 1/3 of the plant is a good rule of thumb and should result in a healthy, balanced plant.

Season

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

Nierembergia scoparia typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Nierembergia scoparia typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map