Mexican Heather
By Anup Sadi - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=130640628
Scientific Name: Cuphea hyssopifolia
Common Names: Mexican Heather, False Heather
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 1 to 2 feet
Width: 1 to 2 feet
Seasonal Interest: Small, lavender, pink, or white flowers bloom almost year-round in warm climates; fine, dark green foliage
Winter Look: Dies back in colder climates but remains evergreen in warm zones
Drought Tolerance: Moderate, can handle some drought once established
Deer Resistance: Moderate
Attracts: Bees, butterflies, beneficial insects
Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11 (grown as an annual in cooler zones)
Soil Requirements: Well-draining soil, tolerates sandy to loamy textures
pH Range: 5.5 to 7.5
Native To: Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras
Potential Disease Issues: These seem to get spider mites often. This may be due to stress.
Notes: Prune lightly to maintain shape; often used as a low border plant or ground cover; tolerates high humidity and heat well. I consider these heavy feeders, at least in zone 8. This may just be due to the amount of energy needed to come back after a harsh winter.