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Cuphea
Llavea, the Bat Face Flower or Tiny Mice Flower, is
originally found in Mexico and some other tropical
regions of South America. This perennial plant grows
about 80 cm high and almost as much cm wide. This plant
strongly attracts bees, birds and especially hummingbirds.
The first things youll notice about cuphea Llavea
are the intriguing flowers that it grows. They are red,
dark purple and black and can be mistaken for actual bats
with red ears. They are small, only 1 inch long flowers
covered with hairs that appear repeatedly between spring
and autumn. The plant is an evergreen shrub under a
tropical climate. Its leaves are green, a little hairy
and in a V shape. Prune old flowers to fasten the arrival
of new ones.
Hardiness zones 9-11 (-5ºC/25ºF, 4ºC/40ºF) in winter.
The plant can resist colds as low as -5ºC. It is drought-tolerant
and suitable for xeriscaping and desert gardens. It grows
best in tempered or tropical climates where it gets the
hot and dry temperatures it needs.
Cuphea Llavea needs a well-drained soil and dry climate.
Protection is needed in winter. It has average water
needs, water regularly, leaving the soil dry out before
watering again. Dont overwater. Place your plant in
full to partial sunlight.
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