Botanical Name: Cuphea llavea ‘Bat Face’ Common Name: Bat-Faced Cuphea Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Warm Regions (USDA Zones 9–11); Grown as an Annual Elsewhere Size: 18–24" Tall × 18–24" Spread Growth Habit: Upright, Bushy, 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: Unique Bat-Shaped Purple and Red Flowers, Continuous Blooming, Excellent Heat Tolerance, Hummingbird Friendly Uses: Containers, Landscape Beds, Pollinator Gardens, Accent Plantings, Patio Displays

Patent: ❌ Not Patented Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed

More About Cuphea ‘Bat Face’

Cuphea ‘Bat Face’ is best known for its distinctive flowers that resemble tiny bat faces, with deep purple “ears” and bright red tubular centers. This playful, unusual bloom shape makes it a favorite conversation plant and a standout in containers and garden beds.

The plant blooms continuously from late spring until frost, producing a steady supply of flowers without deadheading. Its upright, bushy habit gives it strong presence while remaining easy to manage.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Bat Face’ has been a consistent performer in full sun and summer heat. It maintains strong branching, continues blooming during hot weather, and shows excellent resilience in containers and landscape settings.

We especially appreciate its value for pollinators. Hummingbirds are frequent visitors, and the plant’s long bloom window ensures reliable color and activity throughout the growing season.

Cuphea ‘Bat Face’ vs. Other Cuphea

Compared to Mexican heather types (Cuphea hyssopifolia), ‘Bat Face’ offers larger, more dramatic flowers and stronger hummingbird appeal. While Mexican heather provides fine texture, this variety delivers bold character.

When compared to compact hummingbird cuphea like Vermillionaire®, ‘Bat Face’ stands out for its unique flower form rather than sheer flower quantity. For gardeners seeking a heat-tolerant, conversation-starting plant with strong pollinator appeal, Cuphea ‘Bat Face’ is a fun and reliable choice.