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Cuphea ignea

Mexican Cigar Plant

Cuphea ignea is a colourful evergreen perennial admired for its unique tubular red flowers tipped with black and white that resemble tiny cigars. Commonly known as the Cigar Plant, this free flowering variety produces masses of blooms through the warmer months and attracts bees and butterflies to the garden. Its compact bushy growth habit makes it ideal for borders, containers, cottage gardens, and mass planting in NZ landscapes. Cuphea ignea is easy to grow, low maintenance, and highly valued for adding vibrant colour and interest to sunny outdoor spaces.

Cuphea ignea plant with orange flowers.

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Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Shrubs
Height:60 cm
Spread:60 cm
Flowering time:Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Tolerances:Hardy
Garden uses:Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles:Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Rock
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asMexican Cigar Plant
Sku11242

How to grow Cuphea ignea in NZ

Cuphea ignea grows best in full sun or partial shade with well drained fertile soil. In NZ it performs particularly well in warm sheltered positions where flowering can continue for extended periods. Water regularly during establishment and throughout dry weather to maintain healthy growth and abundant flowers. Applying mulch around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Feed during spring with a balanced fertiliser to support vigorous flowering and fresh foliage growth. Good drainage and protection from severe frost are important for best performance.

Cuphea ignea care tips

Cuphea ignea is relatively easy to care for and rewards regular maintenance with prolonged flowering. Trim lightly during the growing season to maintain a compact tidy shape and encourage fresh blooms. Water during extended dry periods, especially while plants are becoming established. Feed during spring and summer with a balanced fertiliser to support strong flowering performance. Annual mulching helps conserve moisture and improve soil quality. Remove spent flowers and damaged growth as needed to keep the plant looking healthy and vibrant throughout the season.

Cuphea ignea size, spacing, and growth rate

Cuphea ignea typically grows to around 50 to 80 centimetres tall and wide, forming a dense rounded shrub covered in colourful tubular flowers. Growth is moderate to fast in favourable conditions with warmth, moisture, and sunlight. Space plants approximately 50 to 60 centimetres apart when planting as borders or mass displays to allow healthy airflow and full coverage. Its compact bushy habit makes it ideal for edging, containers, and low maintenance planting schemes where reliable flowering and vibrant colour are desired.

Landscaping uses for Cuphea ignea

Cuphea ignea is widely used in NZ landscapes for borders, containers, cottage gardens, and colourful mass planting displays. The unique tubular flowers provide long lasting colour while attracting pollinators to the garden. This variety works beautifully in sunny borders, mixed perennial planting schemes, and outdoor entertaining areas where bright flowering plants are desired. Its compact tidy habit and extended flowering season increase its versatility across many garden styles. Cuphea ignea adds colour, softness, and seasonal interest to outdoor spaces.

Why buy Cuphea ignea from The Plant Company?

The Plant Company supplies premium quality Cuphea ignea plants that are healthy, vigorous, and ready to thrive in NZ gardens. As NZ’s most trusted plant nursery, The Plant Company provides expert advice, carefully grown plants, and reliable nationwide delivery. Every plant is selected for strong growth, flowering performance, and long term garden success so customers can buy with confidence. Whether you are creating colourful borders, container displays, or pollinator friendly gardens, The Plant Company makes it easy to enjoy Cuphea ignea.

Questions and Answers

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