Cuphea viscosissima aka Clammy Cuphea
Taxonomy
Cuphea viscosissima, commonly known as blue waxweed or clammy cuphea, is an herbaceous plant in the loosestrife family. Native to the eastern United States, it can often be found in open, rocky calcareous areas. This species is recognized for its sticky stems and produces purple-red flowers in late summer, which attract butterflies and hummingbirds. It is the most common and widespread Cuphea species in the United States. Blue Waxweed is a bushy, half-hardy annual with long-lasting purple flowers that bloom from summer to autumn. Its leaves and stems have a sticky texture. As a houseplant, Blue Waxweed is considered super rare and easy to grow. Regular watering is essential for its thriving, while it prefers long-lasting, direct light within a foot's distance from a window. Well-draining soil is ideal, and repotting when it doubles in size eliminates the need for additional fertilizers. Belonging to the Cuphea genus, Blue Waxweed is native to the Eastern and Central United States.
Common names
Clammy Cuphea, Tarweed, Blue WaxweedHow to care for Clammy Cuphea
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Clammy Cuphea due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Clammy Cuphea should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Clammy Cuphea loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Clammy Cuphea prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
Repotting the Clammy Cuphea is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
Clammy Cuphea grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Clammy Cuphea’s native range is N. America.
More info:
Wikipedia
