The Different Types of Candy Corn Plant

The candy corn plant, also known as Cuphea micropetala, is a charming and low-maintenance plant that produces beautiful flowers resembling candy corn. This plant is native to Mexico and Central America and thrives in warm climates. It is a popular choice for gardeners and landscaping enthusiasts who want to add a pop of color to their outdoor spaces.

In this article, we will explore the different types of candy corn plants and their unique characteristics.

1. Cuphea micropetala

Cuphea micropetala, also known as bat-faced cuphea, is the most common type of candy corn plant. It produces small, bat-shaped flowers that are orange at the top, yellow in the middle, and white at the bottom. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide and prefers well-drained soil and full sun. This variety is drought-tolerant and blooms from spring through fall.

2. Cuphea melvilla

Cuphea melvilla, also known as firecracker plant, is another type of candy corn plant that features tubular flowers that look like fireworks. The flowers are typically red or orange and bloom throughout the summer months, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide and prefers well-drained soil and partial shade.

3. Cuphea llavea

Cuphea llavea, also known as Mexican heather or false heather, is a type of candy corn plant that produces small lavender or pink flowers with white tips. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide and prefers well-drained soil and full sun. This variety blooms from spring through fall and attracts bees and butterflies.

4. Cuphea hyssopifolia

Cuphea hyssopifolia, also known as elfin herb or false heather, is a low-growing type of candy corn plant that produces small pink or lavender flowers with white tips. The plant grows up to 1 foot tall and 2 feet wide and prefers well-drained soil and full sun. This variety blooms from spring through fall and is perfect for edging or ground cover.

5. Cuphea carthagenensis

Cuphea carthagenensis, also known as Colombian waxweed or cigar plant, is a type of candy corn plant that produces tubular red-orange flowers with black tips that resemble cigars. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide and prefers well-drained soil and full sun. This variety blooms from summer through fall and attracts hummingbirds.

6. Cuphea ignea

Cuphea ignea, also known as cigar flower or firecracker plant, is a type of candy corn plant that produces tubular flowers in shades of orange, red, purple, or pink with white tips. The flowers resemble cigars or firecrackers and bloom from spring through fall, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide and prefers well-drained soil and full sun.

Overall, each type of candy corn plant has its own unique features that make it stand out from the others. Regardless of which type you choose, these plants are low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and perfect for adding color to your garden or landscape.

FAQs About Candy Corn Plants

Here are some frequently asked questions about candy corn plants:

Q: How do I care for my candy corn plant?

A: Candy corn plants prefer well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade depending on the variety. They are drought-tolerant but benefit from regular watering during hot summer months. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: How often do candy corn plants bloom?

A: Candy corn plants bloom from spring through fall depending on the variety.

Q: Do candy corn plants attract pollinators?

A: Yes! Candy corn plants attract hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.

Q: Can I grow candy corn plants indoors?

A: While candy corn plants can be grown indoors in bright light conditions, they are best suited for outdoor gardens or landscapes.

Q: Are candy corn plants toxic to pets?

A: Candy corn plants are not toxic to pets but should still be kept out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance yet colorful addition to your garden or landscape, consider planting a candy corn plant! With its unique flower shapes in vibrant hues, it’s sure to catch anyone’s eye.