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Description
Cuphea Viscosissima, also known as “Sticky Cuphea,” is a flowering plant that belongs to the Lythraceae family. It is native to Mexico and Guatemala and is an annual plant that grows up to 30-60cm tall. The plant produces beautiful flowers that bloom in the summer and last until fall. The flowers have a unique shape and are usually reddish-purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Cuphea |
Appearance
Cuphea Viscosissima has a bushy and compact habit. The leaves are lance-shaped, bright green, and are usually 2-6cm long. The flowers are tubular and are 2-3cm long with two petals that form a tube. The flowers have reddish-purple petals and a white center that is surrounded by black stamens. The plant blooms in the summer and fall and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden.
Care Guide
Cuphea Viscosissima is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here’s a care guide to help you:
- Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Cuphea Viscosissima is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cuphea Viscosissima is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Keep the soil well-drained to prevent root rot. Aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest the plant. Use insecticidal soap to control these pests.
Habitat
Cuphea Viscosissima is native to Mexico and Guatemala and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant prefers warm and humid conditions and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: How often do I need to water Cuphea Viscosissima?
A: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Cuphea Viscosissima?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Cuphea Viscosissima?
A: Cuphea Viscosissima is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Q: How do I control aphids and spider mites on Cuphea Viscosissima?
A: Use insecticidal soap to control these pests.
Related Plants
- Cuphea Hyssopifolia
- Cuphea Ignea
- Cuphea Micropetala
References
- “Cuphea Viscosissima.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292530. Accessed 22 September 2021.
- “Cuphea Viscosissima.” University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp622. Accessed 22 September 2021.
