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 (Cuphea llavea) is a delightful flowering plant known for its unique flowers that resemble bats in flight. However, these ornamental plants can fall prey to grasshoppers that voraciously feed on their foliage and flowers. If you notice grasshoppers attacking your bat-faced cuphea, taking quick action is crucial to save the plant. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore effective organic and chemical control methods to eliminate grasshoppers from your bat-faced cuphea for good.
Understanding Grasshoppers and Their Impact
Grasshoppers are common garden pests notorious for their ability to quickly defoliate plants. There are over 11,000 species of grasshoppers and most are plant-eaters that use their strong mandibles to chew through leaves stems, buds, and flowers. They are especially drawn to tender, colorful blooms like those of the bat-faced cuphea. Just a small group of grasshoppers can wipe out a bat-faced cuphea’s foliage in days, leaving behind only bare stems.
Effective Organic Methods to Control Grasshoppers
When dealing with grasshoppers on your bat-faced cuphea, it’s always best to start with organic control methods before resorting to chemical insecticides. Here are some safe eco-friendly ways to get rid of grasshoppers
Handpick and Remove Them
One of the easiest organic controls is to manually pick off and dispose of grasshoppers on your plants. Check the undersides of leaves and flowers where they like to hide. Wear gloves and shake the grasshoppers into a bucket of soapy water to kill them.
Use Insecticidal Soap
Insecticidal soaps made from potassium salts of fatty acids can kill grasshoppers on contact while being safe for people and plants. Spray diluted soap solution directly on the insects and reapply weekly.
Apply Neem Oil
Extracted from the neem tree, this natural oil disrupts the life cycle of grasshoppers when sprayed on infested plants. Neem oil is non-toxic but repels and kills larvae and adults.
Diatomaceous Earth
This powder obtained from fossilized algae damages the exoskeleton and causes dehydration in grasshoppers. Lightly dust it onto the cuphea’s leaves and soil to kill the insects.
Plant Mint, Basil, and Other Herbs
Strong scented herbs like mint, basil, lemon balm, and oregano planted around your cuphea help mask its smell and deter grasshoppers.
Attract Natural Predators
Ladybugs, birds, toads, and spiders that prey on grasshoppers can be drawn in by planting insectary plants like dill, fennel, and cosmos near the cuphea.
Chemical Insecticides as a Last Resort
For severe grasshopper infestations, you may need to use chemical insecticides sparingly and carefully to eradicate them. Here are some options:
Pyrethrin Sprays
Derived from chrysanthemums, pyrethrin attacks the nervous system of grasshoppers when ingested or contacted. Use extreme caution to avoid harming bees and other beneficials.
Carbaryl Dusts and Baits
Carbaryl is effective against grasshoppers but also highly toxic to fish, bees, and aquatic life. Use sparingly and prevent runoff into waterways.
Malathion
This organophosphate insecticide is moderately toxic to mammals but efficient in killing grasshoppers. Take precautions to prevent skin and oral exposure during use.
Diflubenzuron
Unlike other insecticides that target the nervous system, diflubenzuron interferes with growth and molting in immature grasshoppers. It is somewhat safer but can still harm bees.
No matter which chemical control you choose, please read and follow the product instructions carefully. Only target grasshoppers and avoid beneficial insects.
Preventing Future Outbreaks
Eliminating existing grasshoppers is only half the battle. Implementing preventive measures guards against future infestations:
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Check for grasshopper eggs around your garden and crush them to break their life cycle.
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Remove tall grasses and weeds where grasshoppers lay eggs.
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Apply sticky barriers like petroleum jelly or tape around plant stems to block grasshoppers.
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Use floating row covers over young cuphea plants to form a protective barrier.
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Maintain proper pruning, watering, and fertilization practices to keep the cuphea as healthy and vigorous as possible.
With persistence and an integrated pest management plan, you can successfully rid your precious bat-faced cuphea of destructive grasshoppers. The plant’s unique floral display will thank you!
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How do you care for a bat faced Cuphea?
For best results, provide plants with: Organic soil. Full sun or part shade, depending on where you live. Regular water. All-purpose fertilizer. Bat-faced cuphea is fairly low maintenance. You can perform some light tip pruning or pinching if plants become too leggy.
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.
Are bat faced Cuphea deer resistant?
It is deer-resistant. Bat-faced cuphea makes a nice container plant, particularly if you need to overwinter it indoors. Many gardeners enjoy this plant in hanging baskets, and some use it as a houseplant year ‘round. Don’t let your container dry out, and make sure the plant gets four hours of bright sunlight each day!