This warm-weather plant thrives in full sunlight, preferring moist but well-draining soil.
Mexican heather tolerates high heat and high humidity, making it ideal for warmer zones.
While Mexican heather does well in full sun, the foliage stays a little greener in part shade.
The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy
Soil
Plant Mexican heather in average, well-drained loam or clay.
Slightly acidic soil is best with a low pH between 5.5 and 7.
Amend the soil by mixing inpeat mossor using acid forming fertilizers.
The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy
Growing best in temperatures above 55 degrees Fahrenheit, it tolerates high summer heat and some drought.
It will not tolerate frost, but it can survive chilling temperatures as low as 35 degrees.
Mexican heather may survive in Zone 9a if protected from hard freezes.
The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy
In colder climates, grow this plant as an annual.
Fertilizer
Mulch generously with organic matter.
Feed the plant often with a light fertilizer.
The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy
Use clean pruning shears.
Bloom Months
Mexican heather usually begins blooming around June and will continue to do so until frost.
What Do Mexican Heather Flowers Look and Smell Like?
nuttapong / iStock / Getty Images Plus
They have a light, floral smell that doesn’t stand out much.
you’ve got the option to also try moving it to a sunnier spot.
Deadheading will not make a difference.
TheCuphea genusis made of more than 200 hundred species.
The species name “hyssopifolia” suggests its similarity to the foliage of the herb hyssop.
Heather (Calluna vulgaris) needs cool weather and only partial sun, unlike Mexican heather.
Yes, and you might overwinter plants in containers in warm, sunny spots of your home.
University of Florida, Cooperative Extension Service.
