Cuphea llavea is one of about 260 species of Cupheas in the loosestrife family (Lythraceae). This fast growing tender broadleaf evergreen sub-shrub native to Mexico is sold as an annual or houseplant in cooler climates, sometimes under the synonym C. blepharophylla. It is often a conversation plant due to its unique flower shape. 
The common name bat-faced cuphea comes from the resemblance of the ends of the flower to a tiny bat face but it may also be called red cuphea or just cuphea (along with several other species; orange bat-faced cuphea is a different species, C. oreophila.) 
Plants can grow up to 2½ feet tall, but when grown as seasonal annuals generally only become 12-18 inches tall with an equal spread. They have a rounded, bushy habit and the foliage remains fresh all season if watered sufficiently. The stems are crowded with alternate dark green, thick, sandpapery leaves up to 3” long. Each ovate leaf is pointed and hairy. The foliage can tolerate light frost but not a hard freeze. 
Bat-faced cuphea begins blooming in late spring and continues until frost, producing clusters of numerous flowers in the leaf axils. Each flower has a one inch long, hairy purple calyx with two upward facing red petals at the end, forming the “ears” to go with the “bat face”. The remaining four petals are just little spiny remnants in the species but in some cultivars these are fully developed. Flowers are attractive to hummingbirds, bees and butterflies. The small, brown lentil-shaped seeds are found at the base of spent flowers that remain on the plant. 
There are a number of cultivars available which vary from the species including:
Plant bat-faced cuphea in annual beds, along the edges of borders or paths, or in containers – including hanging baskets – where its unique flowers can be appreciated up close. Combine bat-faced cuphea with plants with purple foliage or bright purple flowers to complement the dark “faces” of the flowers or red flowers, such as bright red impatiens, to coordinate with the “ears”. Use it alone or mixed with other plants such as coleus and ‘Blackie’ sweet potato vine in containers. Container-grown plants can be moved indoors to overwinter in a bright, sunny location with at least four hours of direct sun. Reduce watering and keep relatively cool (in the 60°F’s). 
Grow bat-faced cuphea in full sun in the ground or in containers. Provide regular moisture, although plants will tolerate dry conditions occasionally. Fertilize plants in containers several times during the summer months. Pinch back or shear if plants become too leggy later in the growing season. This low maintenance plant has few insect or disease problems but may be infested with whiteflies, mealybugs or aphids. C. llavea is propagated from seed, short softwood cuttings taken in late spring, or large plants can be divided. Start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the average last date of frost. The seeds need light to germinate so just press into the soil surface or barely cover. Seeds should germinate in 8-10 days if maintained at 70°F.
Bat faced cuphea, also known as Cuphea llavea, is a beautiful flowering plant known for its unique flowers that resemble the face of a bat. However, these plants can sometimes develop hard spots on their leaves and stems. As a gardener, it’s important to understand what causes these spots so you can properly care for your bat faced cuphea.
What Causes The Hard Spots?
There are a few potential causes for the hard spots that can appear on bat faced cuphea plants
Fungal Infection
One of the most common reasons for hard spots on cuphea is a fungal infection. Fungal diseases like anthracnose or leaf spot can create brown or black spots on the leaves and stems that are hard and crispy. These fungal spots often have defined edges and may have rings or a yellowish border around them. The centers of the spots may fall out giving the leaves a shot hole appearance.
Fungal diseases thrive in wet conditions Overhead watering and poor air circulation around the plants creates an environment perfect for fungal growth. These pathogens enter the leaf tissue and cause cell death, resulting in the spotted appearance
Bacterial Infection
Another culprit behind hard spots on bat faced cuphea is bacterial leaf spot. Bacterial infections cause very similar spots to fungal diseases. However, bacterial leaf spots often appear water-soaked at first before turning various shades of brown or black. The spots may be surrounded by a bright yellow halo.
Bacteria can easily spread between plants through water splash or infected gardening tools. Overhead watering and high humidity facilitates the spread of bacterial diseases.
Environmental Stress
Abiotic factors like improper watering, intense sunlight, temperature fluctuations, etc. can also result in hard spots on cuphea plants.
Underwatering that allows the soil to completely dry out causes the leaves to desiccate and form dry, crispy brown spots. On the flip side, overwatering bat faced cuphea leads to root rot and leaves with mushy brown spots that eventually turn hard.
Excessive sunlight, especially midday sun in summer, can scorch the leaves. This sunburn appears as brown or bleached spots on the most exposed leaf surfaces.
Rapid changes in temperature or exposure to cold drafts shocks the plant tissue, resulting in dry, dead spots on the leaves and stems.
Pest Damage
Certain insect pests can cause stippling, holes, or spots on bat faced cuphea foliage. Spider mites, thrips, and lace bugs all feed on the leaf tissue, removing chlorophyll and leaving behind discolored hardened spots on the damaged areas. The spots may be yellowish, brown, or silvery depending on the pest.
How To Prevent And Treat The Hard Spots
If you notice any hard spots developing on your bat faced cuphea plants, take action right away to resolve the issue and prevent further damage. Here are some tips:
-
If the cause is fungal or bacterial disease, remove any severely affected leaves and treat the plants with an appropriate fungicide or bactericide. Be sure to follow label instructions.
-
Improve air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal and bacterial pathogens. Space the plants properly and avoid overcrowding.
-
Water bat faced cuphea at the soil level to keep the foliage dry. Water in the morning so leaves have time to dry out before night.
-
Move plants out of intense midday sun if leaf scorching is an issue. Provide some shade from the hottest part of the day.
-
Maintain an even level of soil moisture. Allow the top inch to dry between waterings.
-
Check plants regularly for pest infestations like spider mites or thrips and take control measures if found. Insecticidal soap, neem oil or targeted pesticides can be used.
-
Avoid sudden temperature changes and cold drafts. Move plants indoors or protect with coverings as needed if temperatures drop.
By understanding the various causes of hard spots on bat faced cuphea and adjusting care accordingly, you can help prevent and treat these issues for healthier, spot-free plants! Proper site selection, watering technique, pest management, and prompt disease treatment at the first sign of problems are key. With good cultural practices, your cuphea will reward you with vibrant foliage and beautiful blooms.
Ask Your Gardening Question
If you’re unable to find the information you need, please submit your gardening question here:
Featured Articles by Season
Bat Faced Cuphea
What is a bat face Cuphea plant?
Native to Central America and Mexico, bat face cuphea plant (Cuphea llavea) is named for its interesting little bat-faced blooms of deep purple and bright red. Read this article for helpful informatio
How do you grow a bat face Cuphea?
The easiest way to grow cuphea flowers is to purchase bedding plants at a nursery or garden center. Otherwise, start seeds indoors 10 to 12 weeks before the last hard frost in your area. Plant bat face cuphea in full sunlight and the plant will reward you with color throughout the season.
How do you plant a bat-faced Cuphea?
Combine bat-faced cuphea with red or purple flowers or foliage to complement the flowers. Plant bat-faced cuphea in annual beds, along the edges of borders or paths, or in containers – including hanging baskets – where its unique flowers can be appreciated up close.
How much sun does a bat-faced Cuphea need?
Despite what its name suggests, bat-faced cuphea prefers full sun to be at its best. Outdoor plants may require partial shade in desert regions. Indoor plants will require at least four hours of full sun daily. USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11 are best for this plant, remaining evergreen in temperatures just under 30° degrees Fahrenheit.