False heather (Cuphea hyssopifolia 'Alba')

False heather

Also known as: Mexican heather, Hawaiian heather

False heather offers white flowers in marked contrast to the parent’s mauve blooms. This explains part of its scientific name Cuphea hyssopifolia 'Alba': ‘alba’ is Latin for white. This low-growing evergreen plant is ideally suited to rock gardens and containers. It isn’t fussy about soil or sunlight, thriving in a variety of soils under full sun or part shade.

Scientific classification

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Annual

Lifespan

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of False heather

Care Guide for False heather

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: False heather originates from tropical regions, needing consistent moisture and high humidity. It thrives in evenly moist soil and requires weekly watering. As an evergreen, false heather maintains foliage year-round, necessitating careful watering during the growing season for optimal leaf production.

Fertilize: False heather benefits from balanced organic fertilizers, applied lightly in soil before planting and as a liquid mid-summer for growth. Seedlings require feeding 3-4 weeks post-germination. Avoid fertilizer contact with the crown and use slow-release types at reduced rates to prevent root rot.

Pruning: False heather has small white flowers and dense foliage. Prune in early to late spring by removing one-third of overgrown stems to promote bushier growth and blooming. Always use sterilized tools and prune above leaf nodes for best results.

Propagation: False heather propagates best via sowing high-quality seeds on well-draining soil, lightly covered for light exposure. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth for optimal growth. Once seedlings are established, transplant them to their final locations for ongoing health and flourishing growth.

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