Cuphea llavea
Cuphea llavea is an evergreen sub-shrub from the Lythraceae family of plants. It is native to Mexico. They also call it the Bat Flower, Bat-faced Cuphea, Cuphea, or Red Cuphea. The name Cuphea is from Greek (kyphos) and means curved.
Cuphea llavea grows to about 30in or 75cm tall. The foliage is ovate and hairy and is pointed and dark green. It flowers from late spring until the end of autumn. The flowers are tubular with a purple calyx and a pair of red semi-circular petals that make it look like a bat and therefore the common name Bat Flower.
How to grow Cuphea llavea:
Grow Cuphea llavea in full sun or light shade. Plant it in average, moist but well-drained soil. Plant them outside in temperate climates, otherwise, it is a good houseplant. Pinch the tips to make it bushier. Cuphea llavea is fast-growing and tolerates heat, slightly dry conditions, and light shade. In colder climates, they plant them as annuals. It does not require deadheading. Fertilize them during the growing season, and propagate by tip cuttings.
Also read about Cuphea ‘Starfire Pink’ or Cuphea caeciliae or Cigar Plant
