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Description
Cuphea Llavea Torpedo, also known as cigar plant or firecracker plant, is a small plant species that belongs to the Lythraceae family. The plant is native to Mexico and Central America and is widely grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique and attractive flowers. The plant is a perennial and can grow up to a height of 1-3 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Cuphea |
Appearance
Cuphea Llavea Torpedo has an upright and bushy growth habit, with small green leaves that are oval in shape and grow up to 2 inches long. The plant produces tubular flowers that are bright red-orange in color and grow up to 1-2 inches long. The flowers have a unique shape, resembling a cigar or a torpedo.
Care Guide
Cuphea Llavea Torpedo is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. The plant prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate both full sun and partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather conditions. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cuphea Llavea Torpedo is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant may be susceptible to spider mites and aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage.
Habitat
Cuphea Llavea Torpedo is native to Mexico and Central America and is commonly found in open fields, along roadsides, and in disturbed areas. The plant prefers warm and humid conditions and can tolerate both dry and wet soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cuphea Llavea Torpedo a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Cuphea Llavea Torpedo is a perennial plant.
Q: What is the size of Cuphea Llavea Torpedo?
A: Cuphea Llavea Torpedo can grow up to a height of 1-3 feet.
Q: What is the color of Cuphea Llavea Torpedo’s flowers?
A: Cuphea Llavea Torpedo produces bright red-orange flowers.
Q: What type of soil does Cuphea Llavea Torpedo prefer?
A: Cuphea Llavea Torpedo prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Related Plants
- Cuphea ignea
- Cuphea hyssopifolia
- Cuphea micropetala
- Cuphea viscosissima
References
- “Cuphea Llavea Torpedo.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 9, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277307&isprofile=0&basic=cuphea%20llavea.
- “Cuphea Llavea Torpedo.” Plant Care Today. Accessed August 9, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/cuphea-llavea-torpedo.html.
- “Cuphea Llavea Torpedo.” World of Flowering Plants. Accessed August 9, 2021. https://worldoffloweringplants.com/cuphea-llavea-torpedo-cigar-plant-firecracker-plant/.
