Also known as the Texas plume, red Texas star, or red gilia, the standing cypress is native to the United States. It is a member of the phlox family of plants and is botanically known as Ipomopsis rubra. It may be listed as Gilia rubra as well.
Standing Cypress Description
Growing up to six feet tall but typically more like two to four feet high, this stiff biennial has red tubular flowers and fern-like rosettes. Flowers are on a spike and marked with yellow or orange spots. They open from the tip of the flowering stem down. Bloom season is between May and July.
Growing Guide
The standing cypress prefers to grow in full sun or partial shade with a dry and sandy or dry and rocky soil. Propagate by seeds in the fall. Seeds will flower in the second year, only producing a rosette in the first year of growth. Planting two years in a row will guarantee consecutive blooms since it is a biennial.
Distribution
This native is found in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin. It is seen in open woods and in rocky fields.
Standing Cypress Uses
This native attracts hummingbirds to the landscape for its nectar, so it makes a great addition in hummingbird gardens. There is showy colorful displays, making this a nice ornamental for use around patios and decks.
Source: NPIN