Botanical Name: Cuphea hyssopifolia ‘Allyson Heather’ Common Name: Cuphea, Mexican Heather Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Warm Regions (USDA Zones 9–11); Grown as an Annual Elsewhere Size: 12–18" Tall × 12–18" Spread Growth Habit: Compact, Mounding, Well-Branched Habit Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade Soil: Well-Drained, Average to Fertile Soil Water Needs: Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established Bloom Season: Late Spring through Frost Fertilizer: Light Feeding During Active Growth Features: Soft Lavender-Purple Flowers, Fine-Textured Foliage, Continuous Blooming, Excellent Heat Tolerance Uses: Containers, Edging, Borders, Mass Plantings, Pollinator Gardens

Patent: ❌ Not Patented Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed

More About Cuphea ‘Allyson Heather’

Cuphea ‘Allyson Heather’ is a refined Mexican heather selection known for its airy texture and nonstop production of small lavender-purple flowers. The blooms appear continuously along slender stems, creating a soft, cloud-like effect that lasts from late spring until frost.

The fine, evergreen-like foliage keeps the plant looking neat and intentional even between flushes of bloom. Its compact, mounding habit makes it easy to integrate into containers and garden beds without crowding neighboring plants.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Allyson Heather’ has been extremely dependable through heat and humidity. It establishes quickly, maintains a tidy shape with minimal maintenance, and continues flowering even during the hottest part of summer.

We especially appreciate its versatility. It works beautifully as a filler in mixed containers, a low edging plant along walkways, or a mass planting where its fine texture creates a soft, cohesive look. Bees and small pollinators visit regularly throughout the season.

Cuphea ‘Allyson Heather’ vs. Other Cuphea

Compared to larger cuphea varieties like ‘David Verity’ or Vermillionaire®, ‘Allyson Heather’ offers a much smaller, more delicate scale, making it ideal for detailed designs and tighter spaces.

When compared to improved series like FloriGlory®, this variety may be slightly looser in habit but remains highly floriferous and easy to grow. For gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, heat-tolerant plant with fine texture and season-long color, Cuphea ‘Allyson Heather’ is a classic and reliable choice.