In middle of April, a friend and I went our favorite farmer’s market in the area. Definitely not as exciting as it had been for us before the Pandemic, but we did see this one vendor who had a lots of plants which all were about a $1 or $2 each, great deal we agreed! Looking through her stock I noticed this plant with shining glossy small green leaf and dainty red tubular flowers. Right away I thought to myself what a perfect plant for the hummer regulars in my yard! And sure enough I was not disappointed! She has been continuously blooming from the day I got her till now in our last week of Oct and on, this plant has lived up to her reputation–LOVED by the hummers! I have to say it was one of the best dollars I’ve ever spent!
“Cuphea is gaining widespread appeal because of its outrageous array of flower colors and profiles. Although the flowers are small, they are abundant, and their vivid colors and sweet nectar make them absolutely irresistible to hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators.” Other names for this awesome plant are Mexican Heather, Cigar Flowers (Cigar flower (Cuphea ignata) has narrow, inch-long flowers that range from deep orange to red. Because of their shape and color, the flowers are said to resemble lit cigars.)
If you would like to know more about this unique plant, check out this website and you will be amazed of the varieties! https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/annual/cuphea/
Such a pretty plant and so fun for you!
So cute! They really love it!