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Description
Cuphea Glutinosa, commonly known as sticky cuphea, is a small, herbaceous annual flowering plant that belongs to the Lythraceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central America and is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers. The plant has a compact growth habit and usually grows up to 1-2 feet in height. It produces a profusion of small, bright red, tubular flowers that are about 1 inch in length. These flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds due to their nectar content.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Cuphea |
Appearance
The Cuphea Glutinosa plant has a bushy growth habit with glossy, dark green leaves that are about 1-2 inches in length. The leaves are arranged in an opposite pattern along the stem and have a slightly sticky texture. The plant produces small, bright red, tubular flowers that are about 1 inch in length. These flowers have a unique shape with two large petals and four smaller ones, giving them the appearance of tiny bat faces. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall, and the flowers attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Cuphea Glutinosa is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your sticky cuphea plant:Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and regular watering. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level. You can add organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve the soil quality.Sunlight: Cuphea Glutinosa prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant may not bloom as profusely.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests and Diseases
Cuphea Glutinosa is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. To control these pests, you can spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or root rot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Cuphea Glutinosa is native to Mexico and Central America and is often found growing in open fields or along the roadside. The plant prefers warm, humid climates and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cuphea Glutinosa a perennial or annual plant?
A: Cuphea Glutinosa is an annual plant.Q: What is the ideal soil pH level for Cuphea Glutinosa?
A: The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5.Q: Can Cuphea Glutinosa tolerate frost?
A: No, the plant cannot tolerate frost and should be grown in warmer climates.Q: How often should I fertilize my Cuphea Glutinosa plant?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Cuphea Glutinosa:
- Cuphea ignea
- Cuphea hyssopifolia
- Cuphea llavea
- Cuphea micropetala
References
- “Cuphea Glutinosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a342
- “Cuphea Glutinosa.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/databases/interiorscape/Cuphea_glutinosa.html
- “Cuphea Glutinosa.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/cuphea.html
