Cuphea Vermillionaire (Large Firecracker Plant)
Noted for its dense floral display, Cuphea ‘Vermillionaire’ (Large Firecracker Plant) is a compact, well branched perennial, usually grown as an annual, boasting masses of tubular bright orange flowers from late spring to the first frosts. Rich in nectar, the blossoms are attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Noted for its dense floral display, Cuphea 'Vermillionaire' (Large Firecracker Plant) is a compact, well branched perennial, usually grown as an annual, boasting masses of tubular bright orange flowers from late spring to the first frosts. Rich in nectar, the blossoms are attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. Blooming freely all season, this Cuphea has a mounding habit and a pretty foliage of lance-shaped, slightly glossy, deep green leaves. Easy to grow, heat and drought tolerant, disease resistant, it is a terrific addition to sunny garden beds and containers where it creates a dazzling display through the summer.
- Grows up to 18-28 in. tall (45-70 cm) and 12-24 in. wide (30-60 cm).
- Thrives in full sun or light shade in medium moisture, well-drained soils. Keep moist throughout the growing season.
- This Cuphea is perennial in hardiness zones 8-11 but treated as an annual in cooler areas.
- No deadheading necessary. Will do best if fertilized on a regular basis.
- Virtually pest and disease free.
- Plants may be propagated by tip cuttings.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 8 – 11 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 6 – 11 |
| Climate Zones | 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2 |
| Plant Type | Annuals, Perennials |
| Plant Family | Cuphea |
| Exposure | Full Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall |
| Height | 1' – 3' (30cm – 90cm) |
| Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spacing | 12″ – 18″ (30cm – 45cm) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Tolerance | Drought |
| Attracts | Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers, Wall-Side Borders |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden |