Cuphea nitidula, commonly known as Cigar Plant, is an evergreen perennial herb native to open woodlands and forest edges in Central and Southern Mexico. It typically grows to a height and width of 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters), forming a dense, bushy mound. The plant is characterized by its glossy, lance-shaped leaves and tubular pink flowers that bloom throughout the warm months, providing a long-lasting display of color. The flowers, resembling small cigars or firecrackers, are particularly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, making this plant a valuable addition to wildlife gardens.

Cigar Plant is appreciated for its continuous flowering habit and the ease with which it can be grown in a variety of garden settings. It is often used in borders, containers, and as a specimen plant. Cuphea nitidula thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soil with regular watering, though it can tolerate short periods of drought. While generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from aphids or whiteflies. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual or overwintered indoors.CC BY-SA 4.0