Cuphea lanceolata
W. T. Aiton
Cigar flower
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Summary
Source: WikipediaCuphea lanceolata, also known as the cigar flower, is an annual herbaceous flowering plant in the genus Cuphea of the family Lythraceae.
Description
A herb. It grows 90 cm high. The stem is branched. The leaves are clammy. They are opposite and narrow and 7 cm long. The flowers are tube shaped and dark purple or red. They have 6 petals. The 2 upper petals are large and ear shaped. The fruit is a capsule.
Edible Uses
The seeds are pressed for oil.
Distribution
A tropical plant. It is best in hot humid locations and in rich, well-drained soil. It suits full sun.
Where It Grows
Central America, China, Mexico, North America, Slovenia,
Cultivation
They can be raised by seed or tip cuttings.
Production
They are fast growing.
Notes
There are about 260 Cuphea species. They are in Central and South America.
Also Known As
Ozkolistna tulčica
References (4)
- GRIN
- Heywood, V.H., Brummitt, R.K., Culham, A., and Seberg, O. 2007, Flowering Plant Families of the World. Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew. p 197
- Hortus kew. ed. 2, 3:150. 1811
- Morley, B. & Everard, B., 1970, Wild Flowers of the World. Ebury press. Plate 156
