Cuphea hyssopifolia

In USDA Zones 9-11 Cuphea hyssopifolia (Mexican False Heather) can be grown outdoors as a low-growing, 2ft tall groundcover. It requires full sun for best growth, although it will tolerate some semi-shade. It requires regular water for the best bloom and foliage color. It has a long bloom time with the flowers being displayed in clusters on the end of the stems. The flowers are pink, white, or off-white, but are also available in shades of blue, lavender, and purple.

The Mexican False Heather is relatively easy to care for in a pot, even in cold regions. In USDA Zones below 9, it is best to keep the plant in a container and bring it indoors before the first frost. When bringing the container indoors, find a spot with plenty of bright light and some humidity. Water when the soil is dry to the touch, and fertilize every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Prune back the plant in early spring to help promote new growth.

Similar plants:

• Cuphea carthagenensis (Tarweed, Colombian Cuphea, Colombian Waxweed)
• Cuphea hybrid 'Twinkle Pink' (Cuphea)
• Cuphea ignea (Cigar Flower, Cigarette Plant, Firecracker Plant)
• Cuphea llavea, Cuphea barbigera (Cigar Plant, Bat Head, Bat Face, St Peter Plant)
• Cuphea melvilla, Cuphea micropetala (Candy Corn Plant)
• Cuphea sp. (Cigarette Plant)