Bat-faced cuphea (Cuphea llavea Flamenco Samba™) KOO-fee-ah LAY-vee-ah Genus:  Cuphea This bold-colored cuphea is a compact, mounding subshrub covered with dark-centered, cherry red blooms centered with a deep purple throat and slightly ruffled petal edges. Flowers are larger than those of the species. This sun-loving plant can reach up to 3 feet in height and width. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Flowers all season long without deadheading. Care:  Ideal for hanging baskets, containers, beds, and borders, this plant needs little care besides regular watering once the soil has dried out. Propagation:  Sow seed in early spring or in situ in late spring. Divide, or root softwood cuttings in late spring. Problems:  Whiteflies and aphids. Prone to root rot, stem galls, dieback, powdery mildew, and a few leaf spots.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Summer, Summer Flower Color Purple, Red Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Suitable as Annual Style Cottage Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Shrubs