If you're looking for a plant that brings beauty to your garden and gives back to the environment, Cuphea is a standout choice. With bright blooms, an easygoing nature, and pollinator appeal, it's no surprise this cheerful annual is becoming a go-to favorite at Skagit Acres.
Why Cuphea Works in Our Region
Cuphea thrives in the kind of conditions we see throughout Western Washington in late spring and summer. It loves warmth, appreciates a bit of moisture, and blooms continuously once it gets going. While it’s considered a heat-tolerant plant, Cuphea is also well suited for containers and garden beds in areas that receive a mix of sun and partial shade. Once established, it’s low maintenance and will reward you with bright, tubular flowers in shades of red, orange, or purple, depending on the variety.
A Pollinator’s Dream Plant
What makes Cuphea so special isn't just its vibrant flowers—it's who those flowers attract. The unique flower shape makes it especially appealing to hummingbirds, who love the tubular blooms for easy nectar access. Bees and butterflies are frequent visitors too, drawn in by the abundance of blooms and accessible nectar.
In a time when pollinator populations are declining, choosing plants like Cuphea is an easy and beautiful way to make a difference. Supporting pollinators doesn’t just help them—it also helps your garden. Pollinators are essential for fruit and vegetable production, and creating a welcoming environment for them can boost your garden's overall health.
How to Grow Cuphea
Cuphea does best in well-draining soil with regular watering, especially during dry spells. It doesn’t need much fussing over—just a sunny to partially sunny spot and a little care to keep it blooming strong all season. While it’s technically a tender perennial in warmer climates, here in Western Washington it’s best treated as an annual.
Try planting Cuphea in patio containers, window boxes, or right alongside your vegetable starts to encourage natural pollination. Pair it with other pollinator-friendly favorites like lavender, salvia, or coreopsis for a full summer display buzzing with life.
Find Cuphea at Skagit Acres
We have a lovely selection of Cuphea plants available now, full of color and ready to thrive in your garden. Stop in to see them in person and let our team help you pick out the perfect plants to support pollinators all season long.