Cuphea hyssopifolia (Mexican False Heather)

Cuphea hyssopifolia (Mexican False Heather) lavender flower clusters blanket the dense green foliage of this plant.

Botanical name: Cuphea hyssopifolia

Common names: Mexican False Heather, False Heather, Hawaiian Heather, Elfin Herb

Family: Lythraceae

Origin: Mexico, Guatemala

USDA Zone: 9-10

Plant form: Groundcover or low-growing

Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade

Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.

Watering: Regular

Flower color: Pink; white and off-white; blue, lavender, purple

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

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.