blue waxweed
Cuphea viscosissima
Overview
Blue waxweed (Cuphea viscosissima) is an amazing herbaceous perennial with long lasting clusters of fragrant, deep blue-purple flowers. The blooms are bright and cheerful, and the lance-shaped leaves are covered in tiny hairs that give the plant a silvery sheen. Not only is Blue waxweed beautiful, but it is also incredibly drought tolerant and fast growing. With minimal care and maintenance it can thrive in poor soil conditions, making it an ideal choice for low-care gardeners. It attracts hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden, and is perfect for borders and containers. Blue waxweed is an easy-care, fast growing plant that adds lasting beauty and cheer to the garden.
Care Guide
Watering
Blue waxweed should be watered once a week, or when soil is dry to the touch, at a rate of about 1 inch of water per session. Be sure not to overwater, as this can cause root rot. During the hot summer months, you may have to water more frequently – approximately every 4-5 days – as the soil can dry out quickly due the heat. During the cooler months, you can reduce your watering frequency to every 10-14 days.
Light
Blue waxweed plants prefer at least 4 hours of direct sun each day. They do best in partial sun, meaning in an area with both direct and filtered sun throughout the day. During the hottest part of the day, around midday, they may prefer a bit of shade or indirect filtered sunlight.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 6-9.
Pruning
Blue waxweed can be pruned throughout the growing season to retain a neat and tidy overall shape. Light pruning in early spring will help maintain an even shape and encourage vigorous, bushy growth. Pruning of old stems and dead flowers should be done in late summer or early fall to keep the plant looking tidy. Avoid heavy pruning as this may reduce flowering. When pruning, always use sharp, sterilized pruning shears to ensure clean cuts and prevent spread of diseases.
Propagation
Seed Propagation, Cutting, Layering Propagation, Division
Uses & Symbolism
Attracts: Hummingbirds, Butterflies.
Related plants
Other plants you might like if you grow blue waxweed.
