Cigar flower
Cuphea lanceolata
Family: Lythraceae
What it is like
A herb. It grows 90 cm high. The stem is branched. The leaves are clammy. They are opposite and narrow and 7 cm long. The flowers are tube shaped and dark purple or red. They have 6 petals. The 2 upper petals are large and ear shaped. The fruit is a capsule.
There are about 260 Cuphea species. They are in Central and South America.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It is best in hot humid locations and in rich, well-drained soil. It suits full sun.
Countries/locations it is found in
Central America, China, Mexico, North America, Slovenia
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Seeds - oil
How it is grown
They can be raised by seed or tip cuttings.
They are fast growing.
Its other names
Local names
Ozkolistna tulčica