Cuphea micropetala Kunth

Cuphea micropetala’s bright orange-red flowers might remind you of a lit cigar or candy corn, earning it the name Mexican cigar plant or candy corn plant.

Native Habitat

This small woody shrub thrives in hotter regions like Western and Central Mexico.

Blooming Pattern

The tropical climate allows the small, bright flowers to bloom nearly year-round.

Growth Cycle

Candy corn plants are typically perennial, although not very long-lived.

Cold Climate Adaptation

However, it can easily be treated as an annual or grown in planters and moved indoors for areas prone to colder climates.

Mature Size

While it grows only 40 inches at most, the candy corn plant is a striking border shrub that attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators when used in landscaping.