Cuphea ignea (Cigar Flower)
Noted for its profuse floral display, Cuphea ignea (Cigar Flower) is a spreading evergreen sub-shrub boasting a profusion of cigar-shaped, fiery reddish-orange flowers adorned with black tips and white edges. Blooming from late spring to the first frosts, the blossoms are rich in nectar and attract hummingbirds, butterflies and other pollinators. Blooming freely all season, this Cuphea has a densely branched, bushy, rounded habit and a pretty foliage of lance-shaped, pointed, dark green leaves.
Noted for its profuse floral display, Cuphea ignea (Cigar Flower) is a spreading evergreen sub-shrub boasting a profusion of cigar-shaped, fiery reddish-orange flowers adorned with black tips and white edges. Blooming from late spring to the first frosts, the blossoms are rich in nectar and attract hummingbirds, butterflies and other pollinators. Blooming freely all season, this Cuphea has a densely branched, bushy, rounded habit and a pretty foliage of lance-shaped, pointed, dark green leaves. Easy to grow, disease resistant, Cigar Flower is a terrific addition to sunny garden beds and containers where it creates a dazzling display through the summer. No wonder this tropical sub-shrub has gained fast popularity.
- Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
- Grows up to 18-30 in. tall and wide (45-75 cm).
- Thrives in full sun in medium moisture, well-drained soils. Appreciates some part shade in hot summer areas. Somewhat drought tolerant, but performs best with regular moisture.
- Prune immediately after flowering if needed.
- Virtually pest and disease free.
- Propagate by seed.
- Native to Mexico, Jamaica.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 10 – 12 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 6 – 11 |
| Climate Zones | 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2 |
| Plant Type | Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Cuphea |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall |
| Height | 1' – 3' (30cm – 90cm) |
| Spread | 1' – 3' (30cm – 90cm) |
| Spacing | 18″ – 30″ (45cm – 75cm) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen |
| Attracts | Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers, Wall-Side Borders |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |