Cigar Plant Care: A Beginner’s Guide
Are you looking to add a pop of color and attract hummingbirds to your garden? Look no further than the cigar plant (Cuphea ignea)! This easy-to-grow shrub is perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners alike.
What is a Cigar Plant?
The cigar plant is an annual in most USDA plant hardiness zones, but it can be a tender perennial in warmer climates. It’s a small, multi-stemmed shrub with prolific red blooms that resemble tiny cigars. The flowers have black and white lips and a tubular shape, giving them their unique name.
Growing Cigar Plants
Cigar plants are not picky about soil, but they do prefer well-drained soil that receives full sun to partial shade. They are somewhat drought resistant, but they will bloom more abundantly if they are watered regularly.
To encourage bushier growth and prevent leggy stems, pinch back the tips of the stems during the growing season. You can also occasionally groom the plant to maintain its rounded, attractive form.
Cigar Plant Flower Care
Caring for cigar plants is a breeze. They are not prone to any major pests or diseases. However, here are a few tips to keep your cigar plants blooming their best:
- Sunlight: Cigar plants prefer full sun to partial shade.
- Watering: Water your cigar plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Soil: Cigar plants prefer well-drained soil.
- Fertilizer: Fertilize your cigar plants monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
- Pruning: Pinch back the tips of the stems during the growing season to encourage bushier growth.
Growing Cigar Plants in Cooler Zones
If you live in a cooler zone, you can still grow cigar plants as annuals. Simply start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, you can transplant them outdoors.
Growing Cigar Plants Indoors
If you live in a very cold climate, you can grow cigar plants indoors in a container. Place the container in a sunny spot and water the plant regularly. You may also need to fertilize the plant monthly.
Benefits of Cigar Plants
Cigar plants are a great addition to any garden. They are easy to grow, attract hummingbirds, and add a pop of color with their unique red blooms. Here are a few additional benefits of growing cigar plants:
- Drought tolerance: Cigar plants are somewhat drought resistant, making them a good choice for gardeners who live in hot, dry climates.
- Pest and disease resistance: Cigar plants are not prone to any major pests or diseases, making them a low-maintenance plant.
- Attracts hummingbirds: The cigar plant’s red blooms are a favorite of hummingbirds.
- Versatile: Cigar plants can be grown in the ground or in containers, making them a good choice for both large and small gardens.
Conclusion
Cigar plants are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With their unique red blooms and hummingbird-attracting qualities, they are sure to add a touch of beauty and excitement to your landscape.