FAQ Proven Winners Cuphea hybrid Vermillionaire
| Botanical name |
Cuphea hybrid Vermillionaire |
| Brand |
Proven Winners |
| Common names |
Vermillionaire cuphea, firecracker plant, cigar plant |
| Plant type in Zones 7 to 8 |
Heat loving annual outdoors. Tender perennial in warmer zones. |
| USDA hardiness |
Typically perennial in Zones 9 to 11. Treat as annual in Zones 7 to 8 or overwinter indoors. |
| Exposure |
Full sun for best bloom. Light afternoon shade is fine in hot sites. |
| Bloom time and color |
Nonstop from late spring to frost. Vivid orange tubular flowers. |
| Mature size |
About 18 to 24 in tall and 18 to 24 in wide. Mounded to arching habit. |
| Water |
Evenly moist but well drained. Do not let sit in water. |
| Soil |
Fertile, well draining soil or quality potting mix. Neutral to slightly acidic. |
| Features |
Continuous bloom, heat tolerant, attracts hummingbirds and pollinators, low maintenance, deer resistant, no deadheading needed. |
| Uses |
Containers, hanging baskets, garden beds, borders, hummingbird gardens, patio planters. |
| Spacing |
18 to 24 in apart. |
| Maintenance |
Low. Regular feeding improves bloom. Occasional pinching keeps plants fuller. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much sun does Vermillionaire need in the Pacific Northwest?
Give it at least 6 hours of direct sun. It will flower in part sun but peak bloom happens in full sun.
Will it survive winter in Zones 7 to 8?
Outdoors it is not reliably hardy in Zones 7 to 8. Treat it as an annual or overwinter plants or cuttings indoors in a bright window before first frost.
How often should I water it?
Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Containers may need watering several times per week in summer. Ensure sharp drainage to prevent root issues.
Does Vermillionaire need deadheading?
No. It is self cleaning. Removing the occasional spent stem can tidy the plant but is not required for continued bloom.
What fertilizer should I use?
Use a balanced, water soluble fertilizer for containers every 1 to 2 weeks during active growth. In garden beds, mix in slow release fertilizer at planting and supplement monthly in summer.
Is it good for hummingbirds and pollinators?
Yes. The nectar rich tubular flowers are a magnet for hummingbirds and also attract beneficial pollinators.
Can I grow it in hanging baskets or planters?
Yes. Vermillionaire excels in containers and baskets with good drainage and consistent feeding.
When should I plant it outside in the PNW?
Plant after the danger of frost has passed and nights are consistently above 10 C or 50 F, typically mid to late spring depending on your microclimate.
Common Problems & Solutions
Few or no blooms
Plants need more sun and nutrients. Move to a sunnier spot and feed regularly during summer.
Yellowing leaves or wilting despite moist soil
Likely poor drainage or overwatering causing root stress. Improve drainage, let soil dry slightly between waterings, and use containers with drainage holes.
Leggy, floppy growth
Often caused by low light or lack of pinching. Provide more sun and lightly pinch growing tips early in the season to encourage branching.
Aphids, whiteflies, or spider mites
Rinse with a firm spray of water, then use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil as needed. Increase humidity and avoid drought stress to discourage mites.
Cold or frost damage
Vermillionaire is cold sensitive. Plant after frost and protect with frost cloth if a late cold snap is forecast.
Container dries out quickly in summer
Use a larger pot with high quality potting mix, water deeply, and consider adding a layer of mulch on top of the soil to slow evaporation.
Growing Tips
Site and soil
Choose a sunny, sheltered location with well draining soil. In containers, use a premium potting mix and a pot with drainage holes.
Planting
Set plants at the same depth they were in the nursery pot. Space 18 to 24 inches apart to allow good air flow and even growth.
Watering
Keep evenly moist but never soggy. Water at the base in the morning. In heat waves, check daily, especially in containers.
Feeding
For nonstop flowers, feed regularly. Use slow release fertilizer at planting and supplement with a water soluble bloom formula every 1 to 2 weeks in summer.
Pruning
No deadheading required. Lightly shear or pinch once or twice early to mid summer if plants outgrow their space.
Overwintering in Zones 7 to 8
Before first frost, take 3 to 4 inch tip cuttings and root indoors, or bring a healthy potted plant inside to a bright window. Water sparingly in winter and resume feeding in spring.
Companion ideas
Pair with sun loving annuals such as lantana, verbena, calibrachoa, and salvias for a long lasting hummingbird friendly display.
Product Availability
To check availability or for more information about this product, contact us at 604.882.1201 or email orders@artsnursery.com.