Cuphea schumannii

Native to Veracruz, Puebla and Oaxaca in Mexico, this plant is a perennial shrub with sprawling stems. It grows primarily in seasonally dry tropical habitats. In cultivation, its stems can reach about two to three feet tall before leaning or spreading, giving the plant a broad groundcover habit. The flowers have an orange tubular base and two small lavender petals at the opening. It flowers throughout the growing season, providing nectar for hummingbirds. Established plants tolerate some drought. Photographed in Florida.