Cuphea llavea

Also Known As

Cuphea 'Bat Face'
Cuphea barbigera
Cuphea llavea 'Bat Face'
Bat Face Cuphea
Batface Cuphea
Mickey Mouse Plant
Tiny Mice Cuphea

Plant type

shrub, perennial

size

H: 12"-24"
W: 24"-36"

planting zones

9a-11

More Options

Cuphea llavea plant details

Cuphea llavea is a broadleaf evergreen perennial shrub with green foliage. In fall, spring and summer purple and red flowers emerge. Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and regular water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in acidic, alkaline, average and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Cuphea llavea

Plant type: perennial shrub
Plant family: lythraceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 24 IN - 36 IN - wide, 12 IN - 24 IN - tall
Flowers: purple and red blooms in fall, spring and summer

GROWING CONDITIONS for Cuphea llavea

USDA Zones: 9a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: regular

Soil needs: acidic, alkaline, average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Cuphea llavea, known as Bat-Faced Cuphea, is a colorful tropical displaying red, tubular flowers with bright red ‘ears’ and a purple calyx, or ‘face’. Resembles the face of a bat, hence the common name. A bushy shrub grower providing lots of interesting color all season. Loves warm weather. Cupheas grow best in a well-drained soil with moderate watering. Feed with a slow-release fertilizer at planting. Cigar Flower is a great plant for sunny containers! Protect your PRINCE OF PARADISE™ from frost!

By: Little Prince of Oregon

Shrubby perennial to 2' with unique red and purple flowers resembling a small bat.

By: Native Sons

A succession of red tubular blooms that end in a purple bat-like 'face' are topped by a pair of glowing red 'ears' creating the interesting 'bat face' look. This is a tough and reliable low mounding perennial which blooms from late spring to frost. Great for Hummingbirds, mixed containers, and in mass plantings. Enjoy!