Bbatface Cuphea
cuphea llavea
Also known as: ["Batface Cuphea","Red Cuphea"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub known for its unique, bat-like flower shape with red and purple hues.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Lythraceae |
| Genus: | Cuphea |
| Botanical Name: | Cuphea llavea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden bed in warm, sheltered area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; heavy pruning in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, use a south or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; ensure good drainage; avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmer conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in winter; apply fertilizer after watering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone (optional), place in medium, keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/leggy stems, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in cold; leaf scorch or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and the plant may wilt despite adequate water due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCuphea llavea is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicCuphea llavea is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicCuphea llavea is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Cuphea llavea?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on climate and conditions.
Q: Does Cuphea llavea attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Cuphea llavea be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors with bright light and good air circulation, but it thrives best outdoors.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lythraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
