Cuphea ‘White’ (White Cuphea)
Cuphea ‘White’ is a compact, evergreen flowering shrub valued for its delicate white blooms and fine-textured foliage. It is widely used in borders, mass planting, and container displays where soft, continuous colour is desired.
The plant produces small, narrow leaves that form a dense, bushy mound. Throughout the warmer months, it is covered in masses of small, tubular white flowers that create a light, airy effect and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Key Features
‘White’ is known for its profuse flowering and long blooming period, often extending from spring through autumn.
Its compact size and neat growth habit make it suitable for edging, low hedging, and container planting.
The soft white flowers provide a subtle contrast in mixed plantings and complement a wide range of colour schemes.
Growth Habit and Size
This variety grows as a compact, rounded shrub.
It typically reaches 40 to 70 cm in height, with a spread of approximately 40 to 80 cm. Growth rate is moderate.
Care Requirements
Light
Performs best in full sun to partial shade. Full sun promotes more prolific flowering.
Watering
Requires regular watering during establishment. Once established, it prefers moderate watering.
Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering.
Soil
Prefers well-draining soil and benefits from organic matter.
Temperature and Climate
Suitable for warm temperate to subtropical climates. It thrives in heat but is sensitive to frost.
Maintenance
Low maintenance. Light pruning helps maintain shape and encourages bushier growth and continued flowering.
Fertilise during the growing season to support flowering.
Remove any damaged or leggy growth as needed.
Common Issues
Frost may damage foliage in cooler climates.
Reduced flowering may occur in low light.
Overwatering or poor drainage can affect root health.
Generally pest resistant, though aphids may occasionally appear.
Applications
Cuphea ‘White’ is suitable for:
Borders and edging
Mass planting
Container planting
Cottage and informal gardens
Pollinator-friendly gardens
Low hedging
Its continuous flowering makes it ideal for adding long-lasting colour.
Specification and Care Chart
| Attribute |
Details |
| Botanical Name |
Cuphea hyssopifolia ‘White’ |
| Common Name |
White Cuphea |
| Plant Type |
Evergreen shrub |
| Mature Height |
40 cm to 70 cm |
| Growth Habit |
Compact, bushy |
| Growth Rate |
Moderate |
| Light Conditions |
Full sun to partial shade |
| Direct Sunlight |
Preferred |
| Watering Frequency |
Moderate; allow slight drying between watering |
| Soil Type |
Well-draining, fertile |
| Drainage Requirement |
Essential |
| Temperature Range |
Warm temperate to subtropical |
| Frost Tolerance |
Low |
| Drought Tolerance |
Moderate |
| Maintenance Level |
Low |
| Fertiliser |
Regular feeding during growing season |
| Toxicity |
Not commonly regarded as toxic |
FAQ – Cuphea ‘White’
How long does it flower?
From spring through autumn, often continuously.
Does it need full sun?
Full sun encourages the best flowering, though partial shade is tolerated.
Is it suitable for pots?
Yes, it performs well in containers.
Is it frost tolerant?
No, it is sensitive to frost.
Does it attract pollinators?
Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies.
How big does it grow?
Typically reaches 40 to 70 cm in height and up to 80 cm wide.
