Candy Corn Plant

(Cuphea micropetala)

Candy Corn Plant (Cuphea micropetala)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Cuphea micropetala, commonly known as Candy Corn Plant, is a perennial herb native to open woodlands and forest edges in Mexico. It typically grows up to 4 feet tall and wide, with a bushy habit that makes it suitable for mass planting or as a specimen in a garden. The plant is notable for its tubular, bicolor flowers that are bright orange at the base and yellow at the tips, resembling the appearance of candy corn. These flowers bloom from mid-summer to fall and are particularly showy, making the plant a favorite among gardeners for adding vibrant color to borders and beds.

Candy Corn Plant is valued for its ease of maintenance and its ability to attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies, which are drawn to its nectar-rich flowers. It is commonly used in mixed borders, cottage gardens, and as a container plant. For optimal growth, it requires full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering, especially during prolonged dry spells. While it is generally pest-free, root rot can occur in poorly drained soils. In colder climates, it may be treated as an annual or overwintered indoors to protect it from frost.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Orange, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands and forest edges in Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Cigarplant

Scientific Names: Cuphea micropetala , Cuphea apetala , Cuphea ciliata , Cuphea ciliata , Cuphea eminens , Cuphea jorullensis , Cuphea micropetala var. hirtella , Cuphea strumosa , Cuphea strumosa , Parsonsia micropetala , Parsonsia micropetala

GBIF Accepted Name: