Whether you find the flowers of this evergreen sub-shrub scary or beautiful you will have to admit they are unusual and fascinating! With a hairy purple calyx and 2 upward facing red petals that resemble ears the flowers look like little bat faces and are sure to catch the attention of children and aduts alike. Dark green leaves with pointed tips enhance the flowers that are attractive to butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. The plant is a good choice for butterfly or wildlife gardens as well as in a plant zoo, border, container, basket, and as houseplants. Plants moved indoors as house plants in the fall do well in a well lighted area with cool temperatures (60s) and reduced watering. Other names for this native of Mexico is red cuphea and false heather. Photo Credit JLPC-Wikipedia
Type: Flowering evergreen sub-shurb
Height: 1.5-2.5′
Bloom Color: Red and purple
Bloom Time: Late spring to frost
Size: 1.5-2.5’H x 2-2.5′ W
Light:Full sun; tolerates some shade
Soil: Average, moderately moist, well-drained; some what drought tolerant when established.
Hardiness: Zones 9-12
Photo Credit: JLPC Wikipedia
Karen Meyers