Garden hybrid
This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.
The Story
Plant Bio
Cuphea x hybride 'Starfire Pink' is known for its vibrant pink flowers and bushy habit, making it an attractive addition to gardens.
This cultivar has exceptional tolerance to drought and prolonged blooming from mid-summer to fall.
Uses & Benefits:
Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24"
Width
24"
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial in zones 9-11
Native To
Mexico
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Summer to fall – Late summer
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season.
- Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushiness and remove dead stems.
- Divide mature plants in early spring or fall to propagate new plants.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
- Provide full sun exposure for optimal flowering
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Ignore pruning after flowering
- Use heavy, clay soil without amendments
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Starfire Pink Cuphea questions
What zones can Starfire Pink Cuphea grow in?
Starfire Pink Cuphea is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Starfire Pink Cuphea deer resistant?
Yes — Starfire Pink Cuphea is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Starfire Pink Cuphea bloom?
Starfire Pink Cuphea typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Starfire Pink Cuphea need full sun?
Starfire Pink Cuphea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Starfire Pink Cuphea drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Starfire Pink Cuphea handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Cuphea to compare
Candy Corn Plant
Cuphea micropetala
'Strybing Sunset' Cuphea
Cuphea purpurea 'Strybing Sunset'
Lavender Lace Cuphea
Cuphea hyssopifolia 'Lavender Lace'
Cigar Plant
Cuphea aequipetala
Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea
Cuphea purpurea 'Hummingbird's Lunch'
Diana False Heather
Cuphea hyssopifolia 'Diana'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Starfire Pink Cuphea with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.