Species

Cuphea purpureaCuphea

1 other cultivar

‘Strybing Sunset’'Strybing Sunset' Cuphea

perennial

Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea

Cuphea purpurea 'Hummingbird's Lunch'

The Story

Plant Bio

A tender perennial, often grown as an annual, prized for its profusion of tubular, reddish-orange flowers that are a magnet for hummingbirds.

This cultivar is particularly noted for its exceptional ability to attract hummingbirds, making it a favorite for gardeners looking to enhance wildlife in their landscapes.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright purple flowers create vibrant garden accents, attracting hummingbirds and insects.

Easy to grow and maintain, perfect for container gardens and borders.

Supports local pollinators, especially hummingbirds and bees.

SpeciesCuphea purpureaCuphea

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Tender perennial

Native To

Americas (hybrid)

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds lightly into moist soil in spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Ensure soil remains consistently moist but well-drained.
Provide full sun for optimal flowering.
Feed with a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture.

Pro Tip

Use bright, direct sunlight and well-drained soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth
Apply fertilizer monthly during active growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t neglect pruning which maintains shape
Avoid planting in heavy, poorly-drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pinch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower borderHummingbird attractor in sunny bedsColorful container display

Companion Plants

Lantana Salvia Gaillardia Verbena Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea questions

What zones can Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea grow in?

Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea deer resistant?

Yes — Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea bloom?

Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea need full sun?

Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Hummingbird's Lunch Cuphea handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.