Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ (Cuphea hybrida Hummingbird's Lunch) Pollination Info

Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ is a hybrid plant that attracts hummingbirds and bees with its brightly colored tubular flowers. These flowers have a long blooming period and provide an excellent food source for pollinators.

Hummingbirds are the primary pollinators of Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’. They are attracted to the tubular shape of the flowers, which allows them to easily access the nectar inside. As they feed on the nectar, the hummingbirds inadvertently pick up pollen on their heads and bodies, transferring it between flowers as they move from plant to plant.

Bees are also important pollinators of Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’. They are attracted to the nectar and pollen of the flowers and collect these resources to take back to their hives. As they forage on the flowers, bees transfer pollen between plants, aiding in the fertilization process.

Overall, Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ relies on both hummingbirds and bees for pollination. By attracting these pollinators to your garden, you can help ensure the continued health and reproduction of this beautiful and beneficial plant.

Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ (Cuphea hybrida Hummingbird's Lunch) FAQ

1. What are the growing conditions for Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’?

Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires well-drained soil and regular watering.

2. How often should I water Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’?

Water Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. In hot weather, it may need more frequent watering.

3. How often should I fertilize Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’?

Fertilize Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to leggy growth.

4. How tall does Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ grow?

Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ typically grows to a height of 12-18 inches and spreads about 12 inches wide.

5. Does Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ attract pollinators?

Yes, Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ is known for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies with its tubular flowers.

6. Should I deadhead Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’?

Deadheading spent flowers encourages continuous blooming in Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’.

7. Is Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ deer-resistant?

Yes, Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ is considered deer-resistant due to its strong fragrance.

8. Can I grow Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ in a container?

Yes, Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are placed in full sun.

9. How do I overwinter Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’?

In colder climates, Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ can be overwintered indoors in a bright, cool location. Reduce watering and fertilizing during the winter months.

10. Does Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ have any known pests or diseases?

Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ is generally pest and disease resistant, but may occasionally attract aphids or spider mites. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Planting and Care for Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’

Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that is perfect for attracting hummingbirds to your garden. Follow these planting and care tips to ensure your Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ thrives:

Planting:

• Choose a location with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
• Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of your plant and place it in the hole.
• Backfill the hole with soil and water thoroughly to help establish the plant.

Care:

• Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ prefers consistently moist soil.
• Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
• Deadhead faded flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming.
• Protect from extreme cold temperatures, as Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ is not frost tolerant.
• Prune lightly in the spring to maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth.

Additional Tips:

• Cuphea 'Hummingbird’s Lunch’ is a heat-tolerant plant that thrives in hot climates.
• It is deer resistant and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
• Consider planting in containers for a portable hummingbird-friendly garden.