Cuphea micropetala

Candy Corn Plant | Mexican Giant Cigar Plant | Non-Native

Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Size: Approx. 3–4 ft. tall × 3–4 ft. wide
Bloom: Yellow, orange, and red tubular flowers, late summer through fall
Type: Herbaceous to semi-woody perennial
Native Status: Non-native, native to Mexico
Wildlife Value: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators

A Fall Favorite for Hummingbirds!

Candy Corn Plant (Cuphea micropetala) really comes into its own when many summer bloomers are beginning to fade. Its unusual tubular flowers start pale yellow and gradually deepen to orange-red as they mature, creating the colorful “candy corn” effect that gives this plant its name.

Plant it in full sun for the best flowering and well-drained soil. Once established, it handles heat and periods of dry weather well, making it a great choice for sunny borders, pollinator gardens, cottage gardens, and mass plantings.

Good to Know: This is an especially timely plant for the Lowcountry. Clemson notes that it begins blooming around September, just as Ruby-throated Hummingbirds begin their fall migration, providing an important late-season nectar source. It is perennial in Zones 8–11 and may die back during cold weather before returning in spring.