Cuphea hybrid 'Vermillionaire®' – Large Firecracker Plant

A true hummingbird magnet, Cuphea 'Vermillionaire®' electrifies the garden with an abundance of vibrant burnt-orange tubular flowers. This high-performance variety is relentless, producing a cascade of small cigar-shaped blooms from early summer until the first frost. Its mounded habit and exceptional heat tolerance make it an essential choice for energizing your containers and sunny landscape beds.

Characteristics

• Foliage: Small, lance-shaped dark green glossy leaves that beautifully showcase the brilliance of the flowers. Foliage is deciduous in our climate.
• Flowers: A multitude of bright orange tubular flowers with tips accented by a yellow and black ring, mimicking the ash of a cigar.
• Light: Requires full sun for optimal performance and dense flowering.
• Habit: Mounded, compact, and neatly rounded.
• Growth: Fast-growing, reaching a height and width of 45 to 70 cm (18 to 28 inches).
• Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil but adapts to various substrate types.
• Temperature: Annual in Quebec (Zone 9-11). It thrives in heat and handles heatwaves exceptionally well.
• Resistances: Excellent resistance to heat, moderate drought, and common pests or diseases.

Utilization

• Types of use: Shines in containers (pots, window boxes, urns) or mass planted in the ground. Ideal as a "filler" for mixed containers.
• Decorative advantages: Provides fine texture and persistent warm color throughout the season, instantly drawing the eye and pollinators.

Maintenance

• Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil slightly moist. While resilient, prolonged lack of water can slow down bloom production.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced flower fertilizer weekly to support its massive flower production.
• Pruning: No deadheading is required (self-cleaning), but you may pinch the stems if a denser habit is desired.
• Planting: Plant after the last risk of frost in spring, once the soil has warmed up.