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Cuphea, Dwarf Mexican Heather
False Heather
Cuphea hyssopifolia
Mexican Heather is a compact, fine-textured evergreen perennial prized for its delicate foliage and nearly continuous bloom. While not a Texas native, it performs well in much of the state when given protection from hard freezes. In South Texas and protected areas of Central Texas (Zone 9), it can remain evergreen in mild winters. In colder parts of Central and North Texas, it is best treated as a warm-season perennial or container plant that may die back or be lost in hard freezes.
In the Texas landscape, Mexican Heather is valued for its soft, airy texture and long bloom season from spring through fall, often until first frost. Small lavender-purple flowers are most common, though white forms are also available. It thrives in full sun to part shade, but in Central Texas it benefits from afternoon shade to prevent stress during peak summer heat. It prefers well-drained soil and adapts to a range of soil types, including slightly alkaline soils, but does not tolerate poor drainage or consistently soggy conditions. It performs especially well in raised beds, borders, and containers where drainage is controlled.
Mature plants typically reach 12–24 inches tall and wide, forming a rounded mound. When planted in groups, space 12–18 inches apart for a full, uniform appearance. Mexican Heather is excellent for low borders, mass plantings, edging walkways, or softening the front of shrub beds. It is generally considered deer tolerant, though tender new growth may occasionally be browsed. It is not considered toxic to people or pets.
In areas prone to winter freezes, apply mulch around the base in late fall to help insulate roots. If freeze damage occurs, wait until spring to prune back dead growth once new growth begins to emerge.
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Long bloom |
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Fine texture |
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Heat tolerant |
Flower Color:Purple
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Height:12-24 Inches
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Spread:12-24 Inches
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Spacing:12-18 in
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USDA Hardiness Zone 9a
Available Sizes:
| Item |
Description |
| CUP-DWF-01 |
#001 CUPHEA, DWARF MEXICAN HEATHER |
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Characteristics & Attributes
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Deer Tolerance
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Exposure
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Full Sun |
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Full Sun to Part Shade |
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Habit
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Soil pH Preference
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Water Needs
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Tolerates Poor Drainage
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