Bat-faced cuphea (Cuphea llavea)

Bat-faced cuphea

Bat-faced cuphea is a fast-growing Mexican native, full of red flowers that resemble bat faces (hence its name). This sub-shrub features tender broadleaves, prefers cooler climates, and is a regular fixture in many Mexican homes, where it grows to 76 cm tall.

Scientific classification

Species

Bat-faced cuphea (Cuphea llavea)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

30 cm to 61 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Bat-faced cuphea

Distribution of Bat-faced cuphea

Distribution Map

Bat-faced cuphea is a plant indigenous to the central highlands of a major region in North America, extending to certain parts of Central America. This species has also been introduced to subtropical and temperate zones globally, where it thrives in similar climates to its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Bat-faced cuphea, including the following common varieties :

Bat-faced cuphea 'Torpedo'

Quickly Identify Bat-faced cuphea

Purple-hued calyx with fine hairs, creating a distinct visual allure.

Upward-facing red petals form a bat-like face, unique to bat-faced cuphea.

Ovate leaves, up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) long, with a hairy texture.

Reddish-green stem with branching pattern, pairs of branches at nodes.

Frequent flowering in clusters within leaf axils, providing continuous vivid color display.

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Care Guide for Bat-faced cuphea

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Bat-faced cuphea thrives in a humid, tropical environment and requires weekly watering to maintain its lush appearance. Its water needs may increase during the growing season due to more sunlight exposure, reflecting its strong preference for hydration.

Fertilize: For bat-faced cuphea, use balanced and high-nitrogen fertilizers during growth stages, applying every 4-6 weeks in the growing season and 6-8 weeks in winter. Follow package instructions to avoid over-fertilization, enhancing bat-faced cuphea's growth, flowering, and overall health through seasonal adjustments.

Pruning: Bat-faced cuphea features bat-like flowers and thrives with early spring pruning to enhance bushy growth and blooms. Trim one-third of leggy and dead stems, and perform light pruning post-first flowering for a second bloom. Clean tools ensure plant health and prevent disease.

Propagation: Bat-faced cuphea features striking, bat-shaped blossoms and can be propagated through cuttings. Select healthy, non-flowering stems and use well-draining soil, keeping it moist. Gradually acclimatize rooted cuttings to outdoor conditions to ensure thriving growth and captivating blooms.

Repotting: Repot bat-faced cuphea every 2-3 years during spring for optimal growth. Use a slightly larger pot and provide well-drained soil and consistent moisture post-repotting. Extra care helps bat-faced cuphea thrive and showcase its unique purplish-black flowers.

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