Cigar plant (Cuphea hookeriana)

Also known as: None

The cigar plant (Cuphea hookeriana) is prized for its striking tubular flowers in shades of bright red or orange, making it a favorite for ornamental gardens and container arrangements. This plant is compact, quick-growing, and low-maintenance, although it is sensitive to frost. It is particularly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden. The cigar plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It offers a prolonged blooming season from late spring through fall, adding vibrant color to your outdoor space.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Cigar plant

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

2 m

Spread

20-30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1-2 cm

Flower Color

Purple Red

Images of Cigar plant

Quickly Identify Cigar plant

Cuphea hookeriana can be identified by its distinct small, tubular flowers which are typically vivid in color. The leaves are opposite, simple, and generally have a smooth edge.

Scientific Classification of Cigar plant

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Myrtle order

Family

Loosestrife

Genus

Cupheas

Species

Cigar plant

Planting and Growing of Cigar plant

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Cigar plant?

For Cuphea hookeriana, watering should be thorough but not excessive. Ideally, you should water with about 250 milliliters, aiming to moisten the soil evenly without leaving it waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry before re-watering to ensure proper moisture levels.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Cigar plant? ›

What should I do if my Cigar plant is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Cigar plant? ›

How to save an overwatered Cigar plant? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cigar plant?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4–6 hours per day

Cuphea hookeriana prefers partial sun conditions. Ideal light involves dappled sunlight throughout the day, fostering healthy growth and vibrant coloration in its foliage.

What is the best type of sunlight for Cuphea hookeriana? ›

How can I ensure Cuphea hookeriana gets its ideal lighting? ›

What are the benefits of Cuphea hookeriana having ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Cigar plant?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

For Cuphea hookeriana, the ideal growing temperature is between 65°F to 75°F. This range ensures optimal enzyme function, photosynthesis efficiency, and cellular activities necessary for healthy plant growth and development.

What Soil is Best for Cigar plant?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Acidic soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Cuphea hookeriana thrives in well-drained soil, as it prevents waterlogging which can be detrimental to its roots. Ensuring good drainage helps maintain proper aeration and prevents root rot, promoting healthy root development. This plant prefers soil with moderate fertility, ensuring it gets enough nutrients without the risk of nutrient burn. A balanced nutrient supply supports vigorous growth and enhances its vibrant blooming capabilities. The plant benefits from consistently moist soil, which helps support its lush foliage and flowering. Regular watering keeps the plant hydrated, especially during dry spells, ensuring continuous and healthy growth.

How to Fertilize Cigar plant?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Cuphea hookeriana generally thrives on a considerate fertilizing regimen. For liquid fertilizers, a concentration of about 1/2 strength of the manufacturer's recommendation every two weeks works well. With slow-release fertilizers, apply about 2-3 tablespoons per plant in the early spring to support its growth throughout the year. Adjust the amount based on the plant's response, curbing application if foliage appears overly lush or the plant appears weak.

How to Prune Cigar plant?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by identifying dead or diseased branches and remove them entirely using sharp, clean shears. Next, trim back any overgrown or leggy stems to maintain the desired shape and encourage fuller growth. Make cuts just above a leaf node to promote new branching. Use pruning to shape Cuphea hookeriana into a bushy, compact form. Trim back the plant evenly, taking care to maintain its natural shape and size. Regular shaping prevents the plant from becoming too unruly and helps maintain its lush appearance. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Cigar plant plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Select healthy stems and use clean pruning shears to take a cutting of about 10-15 centimeters. Ensure the cutting has at least two nodes and remove the leaves on the bottom half.

Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. Gently tap off any excess hormone, as too much can inhibit rooting.

Place the cutting in a pot with a well-draining potting mix. Firm the soil around the cutting to minimize air pockets, which could hinder root development.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Cigar plant plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Cuphea hookeriana shows signs of needing repotting when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or when growth appears stunted. It's important to repot during the growing seasons of spring or summer, as this allows the plant to recover and establish in its new environment quickly.

Select a pot that provides good drainage; clay pots with drainage holes are ideal. The pot should be one size larger than the current one to allow room for growth but not so large that water retention becomes an issue, which could potentially lead to root rot.

Opt for a rich, well-draining potting mix. A combination of peat moss, perlite, and compost ensures that the soil retains some moisture but still allows excess water to drain efficiently. This setup supports healthy root development and helps prevent waterlogging.