Will the leggy stems fill back in?

They will not fill in on the existing bare sections. You should prune them back to encourage new, dense growth from the base.

Can I propagate the cuttings?

Yes, you can root the healthy stem cuttings in water or moist soil. This is a great way to start new plants while shaping your original one.

Why is my Bat-faced cuphea looking leggy? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Observe the plant's position relative to the nearest window.
Check if the plant is leaning toward the light.
Examine the stems for signs of new growth.

Likely causes

Insufficient Light
Most likely
How to tell: The stems are long and thin with large gaps between the leaves. The plant leans heavily toward the nearest light source.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot that receives bright, indirect light for at least 6 hours a day. Rotate the pot every week to ensure all sides get equal exposure. Consider adding a grow light if your home lacks natural sun.
Lack of Pruning
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks sparse and open rather than bushy. The stems have grown very long without any side branching.
What to do: Trim the long stems back by one third to encourage fuller growth. Do this in the spring or early summer to promote branching. Regular pinching of the tips will keep the plant compact.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your bat-faced cuphea

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

It is normal for the plant to stretch slightly during the darker winter months. Worry if the stems become so weak they cannot support their own weight.

Stopping it coming back

Prune your plant regularly throughout the growing season to maintain a bushy shape. Provide adequate light to prevent the stems from stretching in the first place.

Bat-faced cuphea: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your bat-faced cuphea and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will the leggy stems fill back in?: They will not fill in on the existing bare sections. You should prune them back to encourage new, dense growth from the base.
Can I propagate the cuttings?: Yes, you can root the healthy stem cuttings in water or moist soil. This is a great way to start new plants while shaping your original one.

Why is my Bat-faced cuphea looking leggy?