Mexican Heather
Mexican Heather (Cuphea hyssopifolia)
Mexican Heather is a compact, fine-textured subshrub that bears masses of small lavender to purple flowers from spring to frost. Glossy, heather-like foliage and a naturally mounded habit make it a reliable accent for borders, containers, and warm-climate beds.
Distinctive Features
Prolific, self-cleaning blooms attract pollinators without deadheading, while tiny leaves and dense branching keep a tidy outline in summer heat.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade, with afternoon shade in very hot climates.
- Soil: Well drained, moderately fertile soil or high-quality potting mix.
- Water: Keep evenly moist to establish; moderate water thereafter with brief drought tolerance.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11 outdoors; grow as an annual elsewhere.
- Mature Size: Typically 1 to 2 ft tall and 1 to 2 ft wide.
Ideal Uses
- Focal Point: Continuous bloom and fine texture anchor small-space plantings.
- Edging: Low, uniform mounds define paths and bed lines.
- Containers: Season-long color on patios and porches with regular care.
- Pollinator Gardens: Nectar-rich flowers support hummingbirds and bees.
- Groundcover: Close spacing forms a soft, flowering carpet in warm zones.
Low Maintenance Care
- Watering: Water deeply, then allow the top inch of soil to dry before the next cycle.
- Pruning: Shear or pinch lightly once or twice in summer to refresh shape and encourage more bloom.
- Fertilizing: Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced, dilute fertilizer.
- Mulching: Apply a 1 to 2 inch mulch layer to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Notes: Protect from frost and ensure sharp drainage to prevent root stress in wet periods.
Why Choose Mexican Heather?
- Long Bloom Season: Flowers steadily from planting to frost.
- Heat Ready: Maintains color and form in summer conditions.
- Compact Habit: Fits containers and small borders without overgrowing.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts hummingbirds and beneficial insects.
- Low Effort: Minimal grooming needed for continuous display.
Plant in a sunny, well drained spot, water regularly during heat, and give a light midsummer trim to keep plants dense and flowering.
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