Contents
Description
Cuphea Ignea, commonly known as Cigar Plant, is a tropical perennial plant native to Mexico and Guatemala. It belongs to the Lythraceae family and is a member of the Cuphea genus. Cigar Plant is a small, bushy plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It produces tubular flowers that are bright red-orange in color and bloom throughout the year. The flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Cuphea |
Appearance
Cigar Plant has small, glossy leaves that are arranged in pairs along the stems. The leaves are dark green and oval-shaped, with a pointed tip. The flowers of the plant are the most striking feature, with their bright red-orange color and tube-like shape. The flowers are about 1 inch long and grow in clusters at the tips of the stems. The plant blooms throughout the year, with the peak blooming season in the summer and fall.
Care Guide
Cigar Plant is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
Water: Cigar Plant prefers moist soil, so be sure to water it regularly. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing in the fall and winter.
Soil: Cigar Plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal.
Sunlight: Cigar Plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will result in fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Cigar Plant can be grown in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cigar Plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilizing. If pests do appear, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cigar Plant is native to Mexico and Guatemala, where it grows in tropical forests and along riverbanks. It prefers warm, humid environments and can be grown in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cigar Plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Cigar Plant can be grown indoors in a sunny location.
Q: How often should I water Cigar Plant?
A: Water Cigar Plant regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can Cigar Plant tolerate cold temperatures?
A: No, Cigar Plant is not cold-hardy and should be grown in warm climates.
Q: How tall does Cigar Plant grow?
A: Cigar Plant can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Cuphea genus include:
- Cuphea llavea
- Cuphea ignea ‘Flamenco’
- Cuphea micropetala
References
- “Cuphea Ignea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286895. Accessed 25 May 2021.
- “Cuphea Ignea.” Plant Care Today, 5 June 2020, plantcaretoday.com/cuphea-ignea.html. Accessed 25 May 2021.
- “Cuphea Ignea.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/cigar-plant/cigar-plant-care.htm. Accessed 25 May 2021.
