Sugarbells Cigar Plant

Sugarbells Cigar Plant (Cuphea ignea 'Sugarbells')

Sugarbells Cigar Plant is a compact warm-season subshrub that blooms nonstop with orange-red tubular flowers brushed with darker tips from late spring to frost. Dense, glossy foliage forms a tidy mound that delivers reliable color in beds, borders, and containers.

Distinctive Features

Self-cleaning, nectar-rich blooms are highly attractive to hummingbirds and bees and require minimal deadheading. Heat-tolerant plants branch steadily, holding a neat outline through summer weather.

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; provide moderate water thereafter with brief drought tolerance.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11 outdoors; grow as an annual elsewhere.
• Mature Size: About 1 to 2 ft tall and 1 to 2 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Vivid tubular blooms provide bright, season-long color at eye level.
• Containers: Consistent performance on patios and porches with regular care.
• Edging: Low, mounded plants define paths and borders cleanly.
• Hanging Baskets: Lightly cascading tips soften rims and pair well with trailers.
• Pollinator Gardens: Nectar-rich flowers support hummingbirds and beneficial insects.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply, then allow the top inch of soil to dry before the next cycle.
• Pruning: Pinch or shear 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 in beds or top-dress containers to conserve moisture.
• Notes: Protect from frost and ensure sharp drainage to prevent root stress in wet periods.

Why Choose Sugarbells Cigar Plant?

• Long Bloom Season: Flowers steadily from planting to frost.
• Hummingbird Magnet: Tube-shaped blooms draw pollinators all season.
• Heat Ready: Maintains color and form through summer conditions.
• Compact Habit: Fits containers and small-space borders without overgrowing.
• 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.