Cuphea ‘Bat Face’

An uncanny resemblance…

Purple and red bicolors are striking in the first place but take a look at these unique flowers—do they remind you of anything? For me, the bat resemblance is uncanny. A colony of these little faces staring out of a planter is sure to elicit a lot of second glances.

Bat-faced blooms keep the color coming all summer 

In addition to their novelty factor, these unusual bat-faced blooms keep the color coming all season long. Bushy, shrub-like foliage is covered in flowers continuously during the summer, from late spring until frost. 

As a native of Mexico, ‘Bat Face’ knows how to handle the sun and heat: it’s been known to survive a 20-day long heat wave of 100°+ temperatures, and thrives in spots that get 8 hours of full sun. Hot Cincinnati Summer—do your worst.

‘Bat Face’ thrives in the sun and heat

We like to place this specimen where it can be seen close-up: at the front of the border or as edging along a walkway. It spreads about 2–3 feet and fills in quickly, so ‘Bat Face’ is also a good choice for larger containers and beds. Plants grow about 2 feet high.

Plants can tolerate some shade and occasional drought

While it loves the sun, this variety can also tolerate partial shade so it’s fairly easy to grow. We find that it does best with regular watering, particularly at the onset, but it can handle occasional periods of drought as well. Plants can be cut back if they get too large.

Hummingbirds and butterflies belong to the ‘Bat Face’ fan club

Customers, clients, and passersby respond to ‘Bat Face’ with amusement and amazement. Hummingbirds and butterflies are huge fans, too. Now, if only we could get a robin to stop by…WHAMM!! That would be a photo-op.

This variety comes in the 4.5-inch pot.