Does Mexican heather like sun or shade?
Culture: Average, well-drained soil with full sun to light shade is fine in most areas. In hot climates, partial shade can help to keep the foliage from fading. Water and fertilize potted plants regularly during the growing season, less during the winter.
Is Mexican heather fast growing?
Good for edging and seasonal color in beds and borders. A popular container plant for pots and baskets. Semi-evergreen. Water regularly – weekly, or more often in extreme heat or containers….Cuphea hyssopifolia.
| Botanical Pronunciation | KYOO-fee-uh hiss-sop-ih-FOH-lee-uh |
|---|---|
| Growth Habit | Fountain |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
How big does a Mexican heather plant get?
10 to 18 inches tall
Prized for its lacy foliage and numerous jewel-like flowers, cuphea, commonly called Mexican heather, makes an ideal container or border plant. Growing just 10 to 18 inches tall, this shrubby, tropical annual is smothered in blooms all summer long.
How long does Mexican heather last?
Flowers usually appear in springtime, and they can last throughout the summer and into the fall. A Mexican heather lifespan can be quite long since these plants are able to survive the hottest summers and bounce back from most winter frosts.
Is Mexican heather a good ground cover?
The plant grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 8 through 11. The “Limelight” variety has yellow-green foliage that stands out next to darker leaves and flowers. Mexican heather seldom has problems with pests or disease, so it’s an ideal choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance border plant.
Do you cut back Mexican heather in the fall?
Soil moisture is the key to keeping Mexican heather plants alive during the winter months. Mexican heather will look better and grow more dense, lush foliage in spring if you cut it back in late winter or early spring. Cut the whole plant back by half, using sharp pruning shears.
Is Mexican heather invasive?
False heather self-seeds profusely, potentially making it invasive. In fact, it’s considered an invasive weed in Hawaii. Avoid growing the plant in spots where it may spread easily or remove seedlings as they appear.
Can Mexican heather be kept as a perennial plant indoors?
► Although Mexican heather looks delicate, it is a fairly sturdy and evergreen shrub. ► In zones 7 and 8, it acts like a perennial, and in colder zones, it acts like an annual plant. In zones 8 and lower where the climate is colder, it is best to grow this plant indoors or in a greenhouse.
Can you grow Mexican heather indoors?
In all other zones, Mexican heather should be planted in containers where the climate can be controlled. Bring container-grown Mexican heather indoors, in the event of a freeze or frost, as it is very cold-sensitive. Place the container in a sunny, warm area and do not place outdoors until the weather has warmed.
How do you care for Mexican heather?
Care of Mexican Heather. Water Mexican heather plants deeply about once every week, then allow the soil to dry slightly before watering again. Container plants will need water more often, especially during the summer months. Prune Mexican heather lightly during the spring if the plant looks scraggly or overgrown.
Is Mexican heather annual or perennial?
Mexican heather is a shrub that grows in tropical areas and acts like an evergreen.. In zones 7 and 8, Mexican heather acts like a perennial. In colder zones, it acts like an annual. Mexican heather blooms with purple flowers from spring to fall and may bloom all year around in warm climates.