Sticky Cuphea

cuphea viscosissima

Also known as: ["Sticky Cuphea"]

Family: Lythraceae Genus: Cuphea Category: Flowers

Overview

A species of flowering plant in the family Lythraceae, native to South America.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Myrtales
Family: Lythraceae
Genus: Cuphea
Botanical Name: Cuphea viscosissima

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a warm, sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining mix with cactus soil, perlite, and a bit of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; heavy pruning annually or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and rejuvenation.
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 light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or soil issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use terra cotta pots for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extremes.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain moderate humidity.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring/summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.

Method

Use fresh well-draining soil; trim rootbound roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; add fresh soil; water lightly.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or root damage if exposed to prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow under prolonged heat above 90°F (32°C).

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Cuphea viscosissima may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or aphids, which disrupt nutrient uptake.

Wilting in Cuphea viscosissima can be caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering, or root damage from pests or pathogens, leading to reduced water absorption.

Leaf spots on Cuphea viscosissima may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential leaf drop if left untreated.

Rotting in Cuphea viscosissima is often associated with root or stem rot caused by excessive moisture and fungal pathogens, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Cuphea viscosissima is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases or studies indicating harmful effects from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for keeping this plant in environments with cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Cuphea viscosissima is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases or studies indicating harmful effects from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for keeping this plant in environments with dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Cuphea viscosissima is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxins that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or growing this plant around humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Cuphea viscosissima toxic to pets?

A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should I water Cuphea viscosissima?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Cuphea viscosissima attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Lythraceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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