Shrubs
Cuphea, Genus, hyssopifolia, Species,
- Genus & species
Mexican heather
Overview
Cuphea hyssopifolia is a dwarf, evergreen, densely branched shrub 1–2 feet (30–60 cm) tall and 1–3 feet (30–90 cm) wide, with a mounding habit and slender, wiry stems. Leaves are opposite, narrow-lanceolate, 0.4–0.8 inch (1–2 cm) long, dark green, and slightly rough to the touch. Flowers are 0.25–0.3 inch (6–8 mm) across, with six petals in lavender, purple, pink, or white and a tubular green calyx, borne singly in the leaf axils along the stems. Fruit is a small capsule that releases seeds through a split in the calyx. Growth is moderate at 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) per year. Plants are damaged by frost below about 25°F (-4°C), and lower leaves drop in dry soil and in low light.
Native Range
Native to southern Mexico and Guatemala, growing in open, moist woodland edges and disturbed sites at moderate elevation.Suggested Uses
Used as a low border, edging, and groundcover, spaced 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart. Grown in containers, hanging baskets, and mixed annual plantings.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 2'
Width/Spread1' - 3'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Lavender, purple, pink, or whiteFoliage Description
Dark greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grows in full sun to part shade (4–8 hours of direct sun) and moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5–7.5. Hardy in USDA zones 10–11, with root survival in zone 9 under mulch of 3 inches (7.5 cm). Plants receive 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week and the soil is not allowed to dry out. Fertilizer is applied monthly in the growing season using a balanced formulation. Foliage scorches in intense afternoon sun in hot climates. Plants are grown as annuals in zones below 9.Pruning
Stems are cut back by one-third in early spring to promote branching and remove frost damage. Light shearing after each flush of flowers maintains a compact, rounded form. Plants regrow from the base if frozen to the ground and mulched.Pruning Schedule
Prune: March–April
early spring
Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 1 gallons
