Pet Safe
moderate Care
bat-faced cuphea
Cuphea purpurea
Bat-faced Cuphea (Cuphea purpurea) is a plant species that is truly amazing! The flowers are a unique, deep magenta color and have an unusually shaped corolla with a "bat face" resembling a bat. This creates an attractive, eye-catching, and interesting flower. Not only is the blooming colorful and unique, but the foliage is also attractive and contributes to the beauty of this plant. It is a low-maintenance, heat loving species and thrives in full sun and attracts pollinators to your garden. The Bat-faced Cuphea is a great addition to any garden and will definitely add an exotic touch.
Sunlight
Partial Shade
Water Needs
medium
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zone 9Zone 10Zone 11Zone 12
Hardiness Map
Green areas show climates worldwide where this plant can grow.
Zone 9Zone 10Zone 11Zone 12
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Water Every
"3-4" days
Sun Needs
partial-shade
Growth
Low
Care Level
Low
Watering Schedule
Frequency
Day 1"3-4" daysDay NaN
💧 Water every "3-4" days
Seasonal Adjustments
Adjust watering frequency based on temperature, humidity, and season. Water more frequently in summer and less in winter.
Pro Tip: Check soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger 1-2 inches into the soil—if it's dry, it's time to water!
Season
Fall
Sep Oct Nov
Winter
Dec Jan Feb
Spring
Mar Apr May
Summer
Jun Jul Aug
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Pruning Time
How to Propagate
Seed Propagation
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date
Cutting
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Division
Divide root ball in spring, replant sections immediately
Layering Propagation
Bend stem to soil surface, cover lightly, roots form in 4-6 weeks
Plant Characteristics
Drought Tolerant
Is This Plant Right for You?
Good For:
- •Forgetful waterers
- •Homes with pets
- •Low-maintenance gardens
Consider Carefully:
- •Indoor growing
Bloom Seasons
Care Tips
Light Requirements
Enjoys dappled or limited direct sun—about 2–4 hours of morning or late afternoon light and protection during peak midday sun.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when top inch of soil is dry.