Bat Face Cuphea

Bat Face Cuphea (Cuphea 'Bat Face')

Bat Face Cuphea (Cuphea 'Bat Face') is a unique, heat-loving perennial admired for its small, tubular flowers that resemble a bat's face. The striking combination of deep purple petals and bright red tubular blooms makes this plant a standout in gardens, borders, and containers. With its long bloom season and attraction to pollinators, Bat Face Cuphea is a favorite for warm-climate landscapes.

Distinctive Features

Bat Face Cuphea is named for its unusual flowers, which feature a vivid red base with two deep purple lobes resembling bat ears. The small, glossy green leaves create a dense, mounding habit, while its continuous blooms provide color from spring through fall. This drought-tolerant and low-maintenance plant thrives in hot, sunny conditions.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun; tolerates partial shade but flowers best with ample sunlight.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil; adapts to sandy and loamy conditions.
• Water: Drought-tolerant once established; water occasionally during extended dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-11; grown as an annual in cooler climates.

Ideal Uses

• Garden Borders: Provides long-lasting color and texture in sunny garden beds.
• Containers & Hanging Baskets: Compact growth and trailing habit make it perfect for pots.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
• Ground Cover: Forms a low, spreading mound that works well in rock gardens.

Low Maintenance Care

Bat Face Cuphea is an easy-care plant that requires minimal upkeep.

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; once mature, it tolerates dry conditions.
• Pruning: Lightly trim back to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Winter Care: In colder climates, grow as an annual or overwinter indoors.
• Propagation: Easily propagated by softwood cuttings.

Why Choose Bat Face Cuphea?

With its distinctive blooms, long-lasting flowers, and pollinator-friendly appeal, Bat Face Cuphea is an excellent choice for warm-climate gardens.

• Unique Bat-Shaped Flowers: Deep purple and red blooms create an eye-catching display.
• Pollinator Magnet: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Thrives in hot, dry conditions with minimal care.
• Focal Point: Adds bold color and texture to beds, borders, and containers.

For gardeners looking to add a quirky, easy-to-grow plant with vibrant blooms, Bat Face Cuphea (Cuphea 'Bat Face') is an outstanding choice.