Texas Tech University

Mexican Heather, False Heather

Cuphea hyssopifolia
Perennials

Mexican heather is well-suited to hot, dry climates, but its lack of cold-tolerance means that it is often treated as an annual in the region.  It combines a compact form, finely-textured foliage, and delicate flowers.

(Detailed plant information can be found at the bottom of the page.)
Cuphea hyssopifolia

Cuphea hyssopifolia Photo Gallery



Cuphea hyssopifolia Plant Information

Classification  
   
Scientific Name: Cuphea hyssopifolia
Common Name: Mexican heather

false heather
Family: Lythraceae
Suggested Uses: treated as an annual, but can be considered a tender perennial

beds & borders, container plantings
   
Characteristics  
   
Plant Form: rounded
Height: 1 - 2 feet
Spread: 1 - 4 feet
Foliage: fine, delicate foliage with leaves that are closely-spaced
Flower: delicate lavender, pink, or white flowers
Bloom Period: Summer
   
Environment  
   
Sun: light shade
Water: low water requirement

drought-tolerant
Soil: well-drained

pH adaptable
Heat Tolerance: high heat tolerance
USDA Zone: zones 9 - 11
Native Range: Mexico

Central America
   
Care  
   
Maintenance: shouldn't be planted early in the season before soil warms

tolerates shearing

propagation by seed
   
Additional Notes: suitable for long, hot summers but does not do well with cool

useful for a compact border plant

TTU Plant Resources