Cuphea llavea

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Bat Face Cuphea

 
Plant photo of: Cuphea llavea
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Information by: Sierra Vista Growers        Photographer: gardenia.net

 

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.

 

  • Anatomy

  • Sun/Water

  • Design

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:

Water-wise plants can be beautiful as well as practical.

Ask at your local nursery for the types of plants that have minimal watering needs.