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false heather

Scientific Name: Cuphea hyssopifolia

Family: Lythraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Cuphea hyssopifolia: A Detailed Look

Cuphea hyssopifolia, commonly known as false heather, Mexican heather, Hawaiian heather, or elfin herb, is a popular evergreen shrub appreciated for its fine texture and compact form.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant has small, closely set leaves.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant has small, closely set leaves.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Cuphea hyssopifolia
  • Common Names: False heather, Mexican heather, Hawaiian heather, elfin herb
  • Family: Lythraceae

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.

Morphology and Growth

  • Evergreen sub-shrub or shrub, typically growing to 2 feet tall and 4 feet wide, though some varieties range from 1 to 3 feet.
  • Features small, closely set, narrow, glossy green leaves (1/2 to 1 inch long).
  • Bears tiny rose-red or pink flowers. White flowering varieties, such as 'Alba', are also available.
  • Compact and dense growth habit, making it suitable for low hedges.
  • Mounding, shrub-like selection features small, dark green leathery leaves.

Ecological Role

  • Can be invasive in some garden settings, requiring management to prevent it from taking over flower beds.

Cultivation and Uses

  • Prefers constantly moist, humus-rich, fertile, well-drained soil.
  • Suitable for tropical accents, flower beds, formal borders, rock gardens, and containers.
  • Can be grown in full or partial shade.
  • Excellent choice for accents in borders.
  • Great for borders and containers.

Quirky Facts

  • Despite its heather-like appearance and the common name "false heather," this plant is not related to true heathers (Erica and Calluna species).

Further Information

  • RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
  • Dave's Garden
  • Monrovia
  • Plants of Hawaii (Forest and Kim Starr)
  • UF/IFAS Florida Master Gardeners
  • Wikimedia Commons