
Cuphea hyssopifolia
Lythraceae
False heather
A small shrub from Mexico and Guatemala, this species is popular
worldwide as a pot plant for window ledges and balconies It grows to
about 18 in (45 cm) high, has a mound-like form and small dark green
oblong leaves. The small flowers appear in the axils of the new
shoots from late spring to winter; they have only a short tube and
prominent pink to reddish purple petals. It is short lived but
self-seeds very readily and may become a pest, especially in warm
areas.
Hardiness zone from 10 To 12
Cultivation: They prefer moist, well-drained soil in sun or very
light shade. Propagation is usually from small tip cuttings, though
they are also easily raised from seed, which often self-sows. |