Cigar plant (Cuphea ignea)

Also known as: Cigar flower, Vegetable firecracker, Mexican cigar plant

Cuphea ignea, also known as the cigar plant, firecracker plant, or Mexican cigar, belongs to the Lythraceae family. This tropical evergreen subshrub is native to Mexico and the West Indies. It features dense branching and produces small, tubular flowers that are bright red to orange with a white tip and two tiny purple-black petals, giving it a look reminiscent of a lit cigar. The leaves are small, elliptical, and bright green, and the plant typically grows up to 61 cm in height.

In temperate regions, Cuphea ignea is sensitive to frost and thus requires a warm, sheltered location. It can be grown outdoors in such conditions or cultivated indoors as a houseplant. Alternatively, it can be grown under glass. Ensuring well-drained soil and providing full sun to partial shade are key to its cultivation. Notably, in the UK, Cuphea ignea has been recognized with the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Cigar plant

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

46 cm to 61 cm

Spread

45 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

White Red Black

Images of Cigar plant

Quickly Identify Cigar plant

Bright red-orange tubular flowers with distinctively flared tips.

Explosive dehiscence capsules with dark brown seeds for effective distribution.

Opposite pairs of small, lance-shaped dark green leaves with subtle veins.

Reddish, unbranched stems under 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) in diameter.

Year-round, 1.25-inch (2.5 cm) long flowers with thin white rims.

Scientific Classification of Cigar plant

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Myrtales

Family

Loosestrife

Genus

Cupheas

Species

Cigar plant

Planting and Growing of Cigar plant

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 10 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 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?

Cuphea ignea requires a moderate amount of water, around 250 ml per watering session. Ensure the soil is thoroughly soaked but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to maintain optimal 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? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cigar plant?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Cuphea ignea ideally enjoys full sun exposure with 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. This supports its bloom cycle and overall vigor, ensuring the plant flourishes with vibrant colors and robust health.

How much sunlight does Cuphea ignea need daily? ›

What can I do if I don't have enough sunny spots? ›

What benefits does ideal sunlight provide for Cuphea ignea? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Cigar plant?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

Cuphea ignea thrives best at temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. This range provides optimal conditions for growth and flowering. Maintaining temperatures within this range helps the plant achieve its full aesthetic potential while minimizing stress.

What Soil is Best for Cigar plant?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Cuphea ignea thrives in soil with excellent drainage. Adequate drainage prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other issues. The plant benefits from nutrient-rich soil, which ensures robust growth and vibrant blossoms. Regular fertilization enhances the nutrient content of the soil. While excess water is detrimental, retaining some moisture in the soil is beneficial. It keeps the plant hydrated without drowning the roots. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Cigar plant?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When it comes to fertilizing Cuphea ignea, it's crucial to understand its moderate needs. Use a liquid fertilizer that has a balanced ratio, like 10-10-10, at half strength. You should apply approximately 1 tablespoon per liter of water when using liquid feed, and for slow-release types, apply a thin layer, about 1 inch, around the base of the plant, ensuring it doesn't touch the stems. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Cigar plant?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin pruning your Cuphea ignea by identifying overgrown or dead branches. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut back these parts, focusing on branches that are tangled or growing awkwardly. Always make clean cuts just above a leaf node, which encourages healthier new growth and helps maintain the plant's attractive shape. For a more aesthetically pleasing appearance, shape the plant by lightly trimming the outermost tips. This process helps to promote a denser growth habit and keeps the plant looking tidy and well-managed. Avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant at once to prevent stress. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Cigar plant plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Start by filling seed trays with a high-quality seed starting mix. Sow the seeds on the surface and lightly cover them with soil. Keep the tray in a warm, bright location and ensure consistent moisture.

Select healthy stems and use clean pruning shears to cut sections of 4-6 inches long. Strip the lower leaves from each cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to promote faster root development.

Place the prepared cuttings in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Water them lightly and cover them with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright place, but out of direct sunlight.

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How to Repot Cigar plant plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Cuphea ignea should be repotted in spring or summer when you notice roots circling the pot's bottom, indicating it's root-bound. Also, stunted growth or water sitting on the soil surface for too long are signs. Choose a time when the plant is not flowering to avoid stressing it further.

Select a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one, with drainage holes at the bottom. This size helps the plant have enough room to grow without too much excess soil that retains water, which can lead to root rot. Terracotta pots are ideal as they allow for breathability.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. A mix containing peat, perlite, and some pine bark works well. This combination retains necessary moisture yet provides excellent drainage, preventing waterlogging and promoting healthy root growth.

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Toxicity of Cigar plant

Is Cigar plant toxic to humans?

The Cigar plant exhibits a mild level of toxicity to humans, with all parts of the plant being capable of inducing poisoning if ingested. Its toxic characteristics arise from the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, and saponins. Upon consumption, individuals may suffer from various symptoms, including gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Moreover, some may experience neurological manifestations like dizziness or headaches. Given that the entire plant is toxic, precautions should be taken to avoid unintentional ingestion, especially by children or pets attracted to its vibrant appearance. While the cigar plant's mild toxicity necessitates caution, it is not generally linked to severe or life-threatening consequences.

Is Cigar plant toxic to cat?

The cigar plant is known to possess mild toxicity towards cats. If a feline friend inadvertently ingests any portion of this plant, they are at risk of toxicity due to the presence of toxic elements in its entire structure. The identified harmful compounds include alkaloids, glycosides, and saponins. Following consumption of the cigar plant, a cat may exhibit signs of physical distress, which requires prompt intervention from a veterinarian. Therefore, if a pet owner suspects that their cat has consumed the cigar plant, it is crucial to seek professional medical help at a veterinary clinic without delay.

Is Cigar plant toxic to dog?

The cigar plant is categorized as having mild toxicity for dogs. If canines consume any part of this plant, they may experience poisoning since the entire plant is toxic. Even small quantities ingested can lead to symptoms in dogs, including gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, and diarrhea. The adverse effects are due to the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, and saponins in the cigar plant. If a dog exhibits signs of poisoning after eating cigar plant, it is crucial to obtain immediate veterinary attention to secure the most favorable outcome for the pet.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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