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Description
Cuphea Carthagenensis, also known as Colombian waxweed or cigar plant, is a small evergreen shrub native to Central and South America. It belongs to the family Lythraceae and is mainly grown for its attractive, tubular flowers that range in color from pink to red.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Cuphea |
Appearance
Cuphea Carthagenensis grows up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. Its leaves are small, lance-shaped, and glossy green in color. The flowers are tubular-shaped, about an inch long, and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. They have a yellow-orange center and pink to red petals that are slightly frilled at the edges. The plant blooms from early summer to fall and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
Care Guide
Cuphea Carthagenensis is relatively easy to care for and requires the following:Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.Soil: Cuphea Carthagenensis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to part shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: Cuphea Carthagenensis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cuphea Carthagenensis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. A regular application of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent infestations. The plant may also develop root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Cuphea Carthagenensis is native to Central and South America and prefers warm, tropical climates. It grows best in well-draining soil and requires regular watering and fertilization to thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cuphea Carthagenensis tolerate cold temperatures?
A: No, this plant is not frost-tolerant and should be brought indoors during winter in cooler climates.Q: How often should I prune Cuphea Carthagenensis?
A: You can prune the plant after it has finished blooming to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.Q: Can I propagate Cuphea Carthagenensis from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate the plant from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer.Q: Does Cuphea Carthagenensis attract bees?
A: While the plant mainly attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, it may also attract bees.
Related Plants
Other Cuphea species that are related to Cuphea Carthagenensis include:- Cuphea ignea (Cigar plant)- Cuphea hyssopifolia (Mexican heather)- Cuphea llavea (Bat-faced cuphea)- Cuphea micropetala (Tiny mallee)
References
– “Cuphea Carthagenensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281035&isprofile=0&basic=Cuphea%20carthagenensis.- “Cuphea.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/library/landscaping/cuphea/.- “Colombian Waxweed.” University of Florida, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp651.
