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Allyson Mexican Heather
Small, freely branching shrub or subshrub with dainty purple-pink tubular flowers; grown as an annual in cooler climates; great for bedding, shrub borders, and containers in warm climates.
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Species: hyssopifolia
Other Species Names: False Heather
Plant Height: 24 in.
Spread: 24 in.
Evergreen: Yes
Plant Form: upright spreading
Emergent Foliage Color: light green
Summer Foliage Color: green
Minimum Sunlight: partial shade
Maximum Sunlight: full sun
Allyson Mexican Heather features dainty purple tubular flowers with pink throats along the branches from early summer to early fall. It has attractive green foliage which emerges light green in spring. The glossy oval leaves are highly ornamental and remain green throughout the winter. The fruit is not ornamentally significant.
Allyson Mexican Heather is a multi-stemmed evergreen shrub often grown as an annual, with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.This is a relatively low maintenance shrub, and is best cleaned up in early spring before it resumes active growth for the season. It is a good choice for attracting butterflies to your yard. It has no significant negative characteristics.Allyson Mexican Heather is recommended for the following landscape applications;Mass PlantingGeneral Garden UseContainer Planting
Allyson Mexican Heather will grow to be about 24 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 24 inches. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years.This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It does best in average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in rich soils. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.Allyson Mexican Heather makes a fine choice for the outdoor landscape, but it is also well-suited for use in outdoor pots and containers. With its upright habit of growth, it is best suited for use as a 'thriller' in the 'spiller-thriller-filler' container combination; plant it near the center of the pot, surrounded by smaller plants and those that spill over the edges. Note that when grown in a container, it may not perform exactly as indicated on the tag - this is to be expected. Also note that when growing plants in outdoor containers and baskets, they may require more frequent waterings than they would in the yard or garden.
How to Care for Allyson Mexican Heather
Allyson Mexican Heather thrives in full sun to partial shade. It blooms best with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, though some afternoon shade can help in extremely hot climates. Too much shade may reduce flowering and make the plant appear leggy.
This plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter. A loamy or sandy mix works best. While it tolerates poor soil, proper drainage is essential—soggy roots can quickly lead to rot. In containers, use a high-quality potting mix with good airflow.
Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the first few weeks after planting. Once established, Allyson Mexican Heather is moderately drought-tolerant. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this plant dislikes soggy conditions.
Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Too much fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage growth with fewer blooms. A layer of compost around the base also helps maintain healthy, steady growth.
Prune lightly throughout the season to maintain shape and encourage new blooms. Trim back about one-third of the plant in early spring to promote dense, bushy growth. Deadheading is not necessary, as it self-cleans, but light trimming helps extend flowering.
Allyson Mexican Heather is generally resistant to pests and diseases, though it may occasionally attract aphids or whiteflies. Overwatering can cause root rot or fungal leaf spots. Ensure good air circulation and proper drainage to prevent problems.
No—Allyson Mexican Heather is not frost-tolerant. It thrives in warm climates (zones 9–11) and should be protected or treated as an annual in cooler regions. If frost is expected, cover the plant or move containers indoors to prevent damage.