Tarweed, Blue waxweed
Cuphea viscosissima
Family: Lythraceae
What it is like
Cuphea viscosissima is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.5
Where it is found
Not known
N. America.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
The plant has potential as an oil seed crop (World Economic Plants)
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Succeeds in any reasonably fertile soil in full sun or part shade.
Propagating it: Seed - this can be sown in a greenhouse in early spring, putting the young plants out in late spring after the last expected frosts. Seed can also be sown outdoors in situ in mid to late spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist