5 Seeds Cuphea micropetala Candy Corn Plant Perennial Ornamental Flowering Shrub

Cuphea micropetala, commonly called Candy Corn Plant, is a warm-season perennial prized for its tall, upright habit and distinctive tubular flowers that fade from yellow to orange-red, giving the bloom spike a candy corn appearance. This species brings a long season of color and a lively, tropical look to borders, containers, and pollinator-friendly gardens.

Grown as an ornamental, Cuphea micropetala works well as a specimen plant, in mixed perennial beds, or in large patio containers where its extended bloom period can be appreciated. Flowering typically continues from summer into autumn, and the nectar-rich blooms draw hummingbirds and butterflies. Plants tolerate heat well and perform best in full sun with consistent moisture.
Species: Cuphea micropetala
Variety: Candy Corn Plant
Type: Perennial (tender in cold climates; often grown as an annual)
Plant_Habit: Upright, multi-stemmed, shrubby
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-draining, moderately fertile soil
Days_to_Harvest: Not applicable
Zones: 8-11 (grown as an annual in cooler zones)
Germination: 14-28 days at 70-75F; light aids germination
Sowing: Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost; surface sow, press lightly, do not cover deeply
Spacing: 18-24 inches apart
Notes: Pinch back young plants to encourage branching; deadhead to prolong bloom