Care of the shrub Cuphea hyssopifolia or False heather |
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The genus Cuphea, family Lythraceae, comprises 250 species of shrubs and herbaceous plants native to tropical regions of America. Some species are: Cuphea hyssopifolia, Cuphea procumbens, Cuphea cyanea, Cuphea ignea, Cuphea racemosa. Common names: Mexican heather, False heather, Hawaiian heather, Elfin herb. This species is native to Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras. They are small compact shrubs that reach 60 cm (1.96 feet) in height. The glossy dark green leaves are small and similar to those of Rosmarinus officinalis. They produce abundant small, highly decorative white, pink or purple flowers. They can bloom from spring to fall. They are used to form bushy groups, in rockeries or in pots for balconies, patios and terraces. Cuphea hyssopifolia needs full sun or light shade exposure. In winter the temperature should be above 5 ºC (41 ºF); they resist mild and occasional frosts. They can grow in any soil that contains organic matter. They need a lot of humidity in spring and summer (water abundantly); reduce watering in autumn; in winter they resist a few days of drought. Fertilize with humus or manure in autumn and once a month with mineral fertilizer in spring and summer. Prune after flowering to remove faded flowers and maintain a rounded appearance. They are quite resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases. They propagate by seeds sown in spring or by semi-woody cuttings in autumn. |
Images of the shrub Cuphea hyssopifolia or False heather |
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