Cuphea ignea is a beautiful, compact shrub. It is also known as the cigar plant or firecracker plant. The shrub is well-known for its tubular flowers, which resemble lit cigars. These vibrant plants add a unique splash of color to gardens and patios, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. Here’s how you can successfully grow and keep Cuphea ignea:

Genus: Cuphea
Species: ignea
Family: Lythraceae

Life Cycle:

• Annual
• Perennial

Recommended Propagation Strategy:

• Seed
• Stem Cutting

Country or Region of Origin:

• Mexico and Jamaica

Wildlife Value:

• Highly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies.

Play Value:

• Attractive flowers
• Attracts pollinators
• Easy to grow
• Provides texture
• Wildlife food source

Dimensions:

• Height: 1 ft. – 2 ft.
• Width: 2 ft. – 3 ft.

Whole Plant Traits:

• Plant Type: Annual, Perennial, Houseplant, Shrub
• Habit/Form: Dense, Rounded
• Growth Rate: Medium
• Maintenance: Low
• Texture: Fine

Cultural Conditions:

• Light Requirements: Full sun (6+ hours/day) or partial shade (2-6 hours/day)
• Soil Texture: Clay, Loam (Silt), Sand
• Soil pH: Acidic (<6.0), Alkaline (>8.0)
• Soil Drainage: Good drainage, Moist conditions
• Available Space to Plant: Less than 12 inches apart
• USDA Plant Hardiness Zone: 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b

Fruit Traits:

• Fruit Type: Capsule
• Fruit Length: Less than 1 inch
• Fruit Description: Approximately ½-inch dry capsules

Flower Traits:

• Flower Color: Red/Burgundy
• Flower Inflorescence: Solitary
• Flower Value to Gardener: Long bloom season, Showy
• Bloom Time: Spring, Summer, Fall
• Flower Shape: Tubular
• Flower Petals: 2-3 rays/petals
• Flower Size: 1-3 inches
• Flower Description: Bright red, 1.25-inch calyx with thin white rim and two small purple-black petals; blooms year-round, single flowers in leaf axis

Leaf Traits:

• Leaf Color: Dark Green
• Leaf Type: Simple
• Leaf Arrangement: Opposite
• Leaf Shape: Lanceolate, Ovate
• Leaf Margin: Entire
• Hairs Shown: No
• Leaf Size: 1-3 inches length, 1-3 inches width
• Leaf Description: Evergreen leaves, lance-shaped to oval, about 1.5 inches, dark green

Stem Traits:

• Stem Color: Green, Red/Burgundy
• Stem Aromatic: No
• Stem Description: Reddish, unbranded, thin stems

Landscape Uses:

• Landscape Location: Container gardens, houseplants, patios, walkways
• Design Feature: Borders, mass planting

Attracts:

• Butterflies, hummingbirds

Selecting a Location

Cuphea ignea thrives in warm climates. Ideal locations are sunny or partially shaded spots that get at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you live in a colder region, grow it in a container. This way, you can bring it indoors during winter.

Planting and Soil Preparation

Cuphea prefers well-drained, rich, loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0 to 8.0). Follow these steps for planting: Amend the planting site with organic compost to improve soil nutrients and drainage. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and as deep as the original pot. Position the plant at the same depth as it was growing in its nursery container. Backfill with soil and firmly pat down. Water thoroughly to settle the soil.

Watering

Cuphea ignea requires regular watering, especially during hot weather: Keep consistently moist (but not waterlogged) soil during growing seasons. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between watering. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months or when overwintering indoors.

Fertilizing

Fertilize regularly during the growing season (spring and summer): Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (like 10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks. Alternatively, use slow-release granules once at the beginning of the growing season.

Pruning and Maintenance

Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prolongs flowering: Pinch off spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. Trim back straggly branches by up to one-third in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

Propagation

Cuphea ignea can easily be propagated via cuttings. Take 4–6 inch stem cuttings from healthy growth. Do this in spring or early summer. Remove lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant into moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright area, maintaining consistent moisture until roots develop (approximately 3–5 weeks).

Pest and Disease Control

Cuphea ignea is relatively pest-free but watch for occasional infestations: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can sometimes affect this plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray for mild infestations. Make sure good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal diseases.

Overwintering

Cuphea ignea is sensitive to frost: In cooler regions, bring container-grown plants indoors before temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F). Keep the plant in a bright, cool spot indoors and reduce watering through winter.

Landscape and Container Uses

Cuphea ignea is versatile: Excellent for borders, container gardening, and hanging baskets. Great for attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and beneficial pollinators.

Regular Observation and Care

Regularly check the health and growth of your Cuphea ignea: Check moisture levels, pests, and overall plant condition weekly. Respond promptly to any signs of stress or infestations.

With these simple care tips, your Cuphea ignea will thrive. It will add colorful charm and natural beauty to your garden or indoor space year-round.