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| Category: Shrub |
| Family: Lythraceae (Loosestrife) |
| Origin: Mexico (North America) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Flower Color: Yellow & Orange |
| Bloomtime: Summer/Fall |
| Height: 1-3 feet |
| Width: 1-2 feet |
| Exposure: Light Shade/Part Sun |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Medium Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 25-30° F |
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Cuphea micropetala (Candy Corn Plant) - A small evergreen shrub that grows to 1-3 feet tall with narrow penstemon-like foliage that clothes the red stems. In late summer through late fall appear the tubular flowers which, when they first emerge, are yellow and age to orange from the base up, giving many of the flowers a two-toned appearance. The flowers have long exerted stamens and exude a slightly sticky substance that makes the inside of the flower glisten. Clumps spread outwards by rhizomes. Plant in light shade to full sun (coastal) with regular to occasional irrigation. It is hardy and evergreen to about 25-30° F but probably root hardy to at least 15° F - a visitor to our website informed us that it comes back from the roots every year in their Suffolk, Virginia garden. Cut to the ground in late winter to early spring to keep plant tidy. A great plant for fall color as it displays the orange and reds associated with this harvest season. Attractive to bees.
This description is based on research and observations of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in our nursery garden and in other gardens that we visit. We also incorporate comments received and appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Cuphea micropetala.
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