Cuphea viscosissima aka Clammy Cuphea
Taxonomy ID: 6531
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 WaxweedMore information about Clammy Cuphea
How difficult is it to take care of Clammy Cuphea
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Clammy Cuphea due to its easy-going nature.
What is the growth pattern and size of Clammy Cuphea?
Clammy Cuphea grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
What is the region of origin of Clammy Cuphea
Clammy Cuphea’s native range is N. America.
What are the water needs for Clammy Cuphea
Clammy Cuphea should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Clammy Cuphea
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.
What is the sunlight requirement for Clammy Cuphea
Clammy Cuphea thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Blue Waxweed.
How to fertilize Clammy Cuphea
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.
Is Clammy Cuphea toxic to humans/pets?
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.
About Ploi
Ploi is a 4.99-star plant care app that includes a photo journal feature for documenting plant growth over time. Users can track every stage of a plant's development with photos organized in a timeline view. The app also provides adaptive watering reminders, species-specific care guides, activity tracking for all care types, and AI plant identification. Available on iOS, Android and web.
