Cuphea is a genus of many plants native to the warm temperate and tropical regions of the Americas. Depending on the species and cultivar, they go by several common names such as firecracker plant, cigar flower, Mexican-heather, bat flower, bunny ears, candy corn plant, and false heather. Cuphea is a tender perennial grown as an annual in Oklahoma. It is low maintenance and is known for its tolerance to heat and drought. Plant foliage is bright green to blue-green and typically glossy. Although flowers are small, they are abundant and provide a spectacular show all summer long with no need to deadhead. Plants come in a variety of forms with a variety of flower colors and forms that are vivid and produce a sweet nectar that attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and other pollinators. Some of the more popular types include firecracker plant (C. ignea), Mexican-heather (C. hyssopifolia), bat-faced cuphea (C. llavea), and candy corn plant (C. micropetala) along with many hybrids.

Exposure: Full sun
Soil: Moist, well-drained, tolerates drier soil after establishment
Hardiness: Use as an annual