Cuphea micropetala

Thank goodness horticultural amnesty has allowed this Mexican immigrant to remain in the US. Cuphea micropetala forms a stunning 3.5' tall x 6' wide deciduous clump topped, starting for us in mid-September, with small tubular flowers that line the upper 1' of each stem. The flowers open bright yellow but as the flowers age, the base turns orange-red before the entire flower takes on that color. The results are bicolor flowers so beloved by the butterflies and hummingbirds we have to declare a temporary no-fly zone while we take cuttings. Although little-known, the medicinal oils from the foliage are used to treat liver and spleen ailments, but, no Lucy, we can't ex-spleen how. In cold climates, Cuphea micropetala may be slow to return in spring but our plants have been reliable, returning from 8 degrees F, as long as they get plenty of summer heat. Watch our Plant Spotlight video for more information.