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(Cuphea calophylla var. mesostemon)
Red Stemmed Cigar Plant (Cuphea calophylla var. mesostemon)
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Estimated Native Range
Climate Requirements for San Rafael, California
| This Plant | Your Site | Plant Suitability for Your Location | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| • Precipitation | 56" - 67" | 41" | Aquatic | Aquatic |
| • High Temp. | 77°F - 91°F | 82°F | Your summer temperatures are normal for this plant. | Excellent |
| • Low Temp. | 42°F - 54°F | 41°F | Your winter temperatures are normal for this plant | Excellent |
This plant should grow well at your location with about N inches per year (Y minutes per month) of irrigation.
Summary
Cuphea calophylla var. mesostemon, commonly known as Red Stemmed Cigar Plant or Red Stemmed Cuphea, is a perennial herb native to Bolivia, Brazil and Argentina. It exhibits a moderate growth rate, reaching a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). This plant is characterized by its lance-shaped leaves and tubular flowers, which are typically red and bloom profusely from summer into fall, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. The stems are often tinged with red, adding to the plant’s ornamental value.
The Red Stemmed Cigar Plant is valued for its vibrant flowers and ability to attract wildlife. It is suitable for border planting, container gardening, and as an accent in mixed beds due to its compact size and showy blooms. It requires well-drained soil, preferably clay or loam, and consistent moisture, though it is somewhat drought-tolerant once established. It performs best in full sun to part shade. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. This Cuphea is not known to be invasive and is a low-maintenance option for gardeners seeking long-lasting color in their landscapes.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Red Stemmed Cigar Plant is valued for its vibrant flowers and ability to attract wildlife. It is suitable for border planting, container gardening, and as an accent in mixed beds due to its compact size and showy blooms. It requires well-drained soil, preferably clay or loam, and consistent moisture, though it is somewhat drought-tolerant once established. It performs best in full sun to part shade. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. This Cuphea is not known to be invasive and is a low-maintenance option for gardeners seeking long-lasting color in their landscapes.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type:
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Green, Red
- Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Fast, Medium
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Open woodlands and forest edges
Other Names
Common Names: Red Stemmed Cuphea
Scientific Names: Cuphea calophylla var. mesostemon , Cuphea calophylla subsp. mesostemum , Cuphea hyssopifolia , Cuphea mesostemon , Cuphea mesostemon var. missionera
GBIF Accepted Name: Cuphea calophylla var. mesostemon