Cuphea llavea
Bat Face Cuphea
Description
Native to Mexico, Central America. Leaves are green, lanceolate, 3" long. The black to purple lobes of the red flowers resemble the face of a bat. Needs moderate water in the desert southwest and is evergreen above 25 degrees. Great color all summer into autumn. Cut back in early spring for new season growth. This perennial reaches a mature size of 2-3' tall and 3' wide. It tolerates full or partial sun. Soil should be well-draining. Blooms attract hummingbirds.
Plant Type
Perennial
Height Range
1-3'
Flower Color
Purple, Red, Multi-Colored
Flower Season
Summer, Fall
Leaf Color
Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Medium, Extra in Summer
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam
Soil Condition
Average, Rich, Poor, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
English Cottage, Meadow, Mediterranean, Ranch, Tropical
Accenting Features
Fall Color, Showy Flowers, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Entry, Perennial Border, Parking Strip, Patio, Raised Planter, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Cut Flowers, Mass Planting
Attracts Wildlife
Hummingbirds
Water Saving Tip:
Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.
Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.