A very variable species. Several subspecies, varieties and forms have been proposed, based on differences in foliar form, amount of indumentum and differences in floral morphology.

Common Name:

General Information

Cuphea racemosa is an evergreen perennial plant with stems that can become more or less woody and persist; it can grow 30 - 80cm tall.
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

S. America - Argentina to Colombia and Venezuela

Habitat

Roadsides, wet canyons, banks of streams, damp and shady places; at elevations around 1,150 - 1,200 metres.

Properties

Weed Potential	Yes
Medicinal Rating
Habit	Evergreen Perennial
Height	0.50 m
Pollinators	Insects, Humming birds
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Species in this genus generally prefer a position in full sun, but are tolerant of partial shade. They generally grow best in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils[].
The plant is considered to be an invasive weed in the Galapagos Islands[].
The seed of Cuphea species is generally a good source of medium length fatty acids, which have a range of industrial and cosmetic applications and can also be used in foods[]. Several species are being trialled as seed oil crops in temperate zone countries, though they are unlikely to become a commercial crop in the tropics simply because it is so much easier to grow oil crops such as palm oil (Elaeis species) and coconut (Cocos nucifera).

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

An aqueous infusion of the fresh mature leaves is taken orally for the treatment of urinary tract infection[].

Other Uses

We have no specific information for this species but, although rather small, the seed of Cuphea species is generally a good source of medium length fatty acids[].
Industrial oils made from these fatty acids have a range of uses, including as a defoaming agent; a booster for soaps and detergents; and in health and beauty products[]. They can also be used in foods, mostly as vegetable shortenings.

Propagation

Seed - can be sown in situ[]. Germination usually takes a few weeks because of the hard seed coat.

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