The compact pink cigar plant, (Cuphea cyanea) is cute as can be! My Iphone 5 did an okay job getting some photos in the harsh afternoon light; but, what drew me to this plant, located in a Sausalito, California garden, was walking by and noticing a drift of color.
I just had to get closer to get a better look. What was this plant? What are all of these plants? My goodness, I could eat off the beds of this garden, it’s immaculate!!!
So many thoughts all at once…
3 Reasons For This Cuphea’s Amazingness
Number 1. It’s compact and floriferous.
Take a look at the profusion of flowers; this Cuphea (low pink flowers, photo right) is providing a very striking and colorful pink drift.
Also, it’s compact and wonderful for the front of the bed. As you can see here, it’s about 1 foot tall by 1 foot wide.
Great size & companion for the variegated iris’ behind, also in a drift.
Plus, the cuphea is in flower much of the year. Bonus!
Number 2. It’s a star on its own!
Well, it might be enjoying the company of a variegated flax plant (Phormium), but it doesn’t take away from it’s
star power. I do like this combination…
But the close up gives you a chance to see the hummingbird loving flowers. This Cuphea, like all of them, makes
an excellent container plant.
Number 3. Makes a wonderful edging plant.
Take a look at how compact it is here, restrained and not budging over the low rock edged wall.
Could be an interesting edging plant in a knot garden, or anywhere”neat and tidy” are what you want.
About this Plant
- Hardiness Zones USDA 9-11. You can grow as an annual elsewhere.
- Exposure: Part sun to shade
- Prefers rich, well drained soil
- Deadhead to prolong bloom and cut back by half annually to maintain growth
Unfortunately, Cuphea cyanea has a downside in that it doesn’t seem to be widely grown or overly available as yet. If you are looking for it, check out Annie’s Annuals, as they state on their website that they grow one crop a year. Also, if you like this plant, I suggest checking out other Cupheas
Happy Gardening!
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