Elfin Herb

Cuphea hyssopifolia (KOO-fee-ah hiss-sop-ih-FOH-lee-ah)

Family: Lythraceae Unknown Herbaceous (1-3 ft)

Mexican heather is a small, flowering, dense evergreen shrub native to Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. It has naturalized in Hawaii and is considered weedy there. The small lavender flowers appear singly in the leaf axis along the stem and bloom profusely until frost. This compact plant grows up to 2 feet tall and wide with a rounded shape and multiple stems. It is an evergreen in warm climates or indoors. The genus name, Cuphea, is derived from the Greek word kyphos , meaning curved, and most likely refers to the shape of its seed capsules. The specific epithet, hyssop , refers to the leaves resembling those of the herb hyssop. This plant is a member of the loosestrife family ( Lythraceae). Although Mexican heather resembles heather, it is not a member of the heather family; hence, the common name, false heather. It is adaptable to various soils with good drainage, tolerates full sun, and withstands high summer heat and some drought, but grows best with regular moisture. This plant is moderately salt-tolerant. In cooler climates, it is usually grown as a perennial container plant or houseplant. If grown indoors, place the plant in a warm, sunny location. In the garden, it is typically grown as an annual. You can grow the plant from seed by starting indoors, 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost date, or propagate from softwood cuttings. It is probably best to begin with new plants each year. The leaves are 0.75 inches long, glossy, and green. The flowers are small, trumpet-shaped, with 6 petals, and are lavender with a green calyx. Cultivars of white and pink flowers are available. The blooms attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. In our climate, Mexican heather can be used as an annual. Consider this plant for use as a border or groundcover, and in mass plantings. Containers or hanging baskets of Mexican heather will add color and interest to your patio or deck. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Monitor for mealybugs, thrips, and whiteflies, particularly on indoor plants. The flea beetle can defoliate plants quickly. Nematodes will weaken plants. During cold weather, this plant will die back to the ground in Plant Hardiness Zones 8 to 9. If the plant has been mulched well, it will sprout from the base of the stem. Mexican Heather has naturalized in New Zealand and Hawaii.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 62 attributes.