Mexican Heather

Mexican heather is a small shrub that produces a profusion of glossy leaves and vibrant purple blooms from spring through to the first frost of winter. This pretty, low-maintenance plant works well in a range of situations, from borders to patio containers to pollinator gardens.

Overview

Despite the name, Mexican heather, cuphea hyssopifolia, is not part of the heather family. It is sometimes known as false heather or Hawaiian heather and is native to Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras.

This small shrub grows 1.5-2 feet in height. Its small purple flowers - also available in a range of shades from pink to white - make a pleasing contrast with its bright green foliage. Mexican heather flowers from spring throughout the summer months, right up until the first frost of winter.

In warm climates, Mexican heather is root-hardy through mild winters. This means that, if you live in Zones 9-11, it acts as a perennial, dying back during the cold months and returning in spring. In colder climates, Mexican heather is an annual and needs to be replaced each year.

Although a non-native plant in Florida, Mexican heather is considered by IFAS to be suitable for use in Florida-Friendly Landscaping. This means that, if used appropriately, it can be part of a landscape that protects Florida's natural resources.

Mexican Heather: Landscaping Uses

Depending on your needs, there are various ways this gorgeous plant can work as part of your landscape design. Here are some possibilities:

• Use this cheery plant as a border plant; its glossy green leaves and colorful flowers will cheer any yard or entryway.
• This tiny shrub, with its pretty clusters of flowers, works well as ground cover or as a filler plant between larger shrubs.
• Mexican heather's beautiful flowers can brighten up your patio as a container plant. This is an excellent option in cooler climates, as you can simply bring this fragile plant indoors any time a freeze is forecast.

How to Grow Mexican Heather

Plant Mexican heather in full sun. This charming plant is tolerant of summer heat and does best with four to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. Partial shade outside this time is fine.

Mexican heather will spread a little, growing up to 2.5 feet wide if given space. Well-drained soil is essential; a range of soil types can be tolerated. Providing additional nutrients by adding organic matter to the soil will boost growth.

To transplant your young Mexican heather starter plants, dig holes around two feet apart to give them enough room. Each hole should be two to three times as wide as the root ball. Gently move each plant into its new spot, then fill in with soil and water thoroughly.

Once planted, Mexican heather does not need much water. It is a drought-tolerant plant, but does not like to get wet feet! Make sure it isn't sitting in soggy soil by waiting until the soil is dry to the touch before watering.

Caring for Mexican Heather

Once established, Mexican heather is a low-maintenance shrub that does not usually need a lot of attention. Light pruning is sometimes needed in spring to avoid an overgrown appearance. A layer of mulch can be applied to retain moisture.

This beautiful plant does not often suffer from pests or disease. Sometimes it can attract spider mites or flea beetles. It's a good idea to check your plants regularly for signs of pests. Tiny round holes in the leaves can be a sign of an infestation.

If you do observe spider mites or flea beetles on your Mexican heather, you may be able to get rid of them by spraying with a solution of isopropyl alcohol, water, and dish soap. Using diluted neem oil is another possibility.

Varieties of Mexican Heather

Several different cultivars of Mexican heather are available, in a range of flower colors. Here are some options:

• 'Allyson' is a dainty plant with lavender flowers.
• 'Alba' is a variety with pretty white flowers.
• The 'FloriGlory' cultivars have extra-large flowers and are especially attractive to pollinators.

Many other varieties are also available. If you would like help choosing native or Florida-friendly plants for your landscape design, don't hesitate to get in touch with your local experts at LawnMore Gainesville!

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