Bat-Face Cuphea 'Tiny Winnie' (Cuphea llavea 'Tiny Winnie'): Miniature Whimsical Flowers for Containers

Botanical Profile

Family: Lythraceae (ly-THRAY-see-ee)
Genus: Cuphea (KYOO-fee-uh)
Species: llavea (LAH-vay-uh)
Cultivar: 'Tiny Winnie'

Description

'Tiny Winnie' is a dwarf selection of bat-face cuphea, forming a compact mound 8–12 inches tall and wide. The small, oval leaves are dark green. The unique flowers have a tubular, purple-red calyx (the "face") with two bright red, ear-like petals at the top (the "ears" or "bat wings")—resembling a tiny bat or mouse. Blooms profusely from late spring to frost.

Cultivation

Grows in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Heat and humidity tolerant. Hardy in zones 9–11; elsewhere, grow as an annual or overwinter indoors. Excellent for containers, hanging baskets, and border edges. Pinch to encourage bushiness.

Garden Appeal

The whimsical flowers delight children and adults alike. Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. A conversation piece in container combinations. The 'Tiny Winnie' cultivar is especially floriferous and compact.