Standing Cypress
Ipomopsis rubra
Last reviewed: June 2026
Ipomopsis rubra (Standing Cypress) is a native wildflower producing tall spikes of red tubular flowers from June through August. This drought-tolerant plant attracts hummingbirds and grows throughout the southeastern and south-central United States.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–48" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 17 more states
Pollinators
hummingbirds, nectar insects
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Standing Cypress is a tall, slender wildflower that produces spectacular spikes of bright red tubular blooms during summer months. This drought-tolerant native grows as a biennial, forming a rosette of feathery foliage the first year before sending up its impressive flowering stalk the second year.
Growing Standing Cypress
Grow Standing Cypress in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Standing Cypress is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- May flop without support
- Best in less formal zones
Wildlife value
The tubular red flowers are magnets for hummingbirds and serve as an important nectar source during peak summer heat. Various nectar-seeking insects also visit the long-blooming flower spikes.
Common questions
- When does Standing Cypress bloom?
- Standing Cypress blooms from June through August, producing distinctive tall spikes of bright red tubular flowers.
- What pollinators visit Ipomopsis rubra?
- Standing Cypress attracts hummingbirds with its red tubular flowers and also provides nectar for various insects including butterflies and moths.
- Where is Standing Cypress native?
- Ipomopsis rubra is native to much of the southeastern and south-central United States, including states from Texas and Florida north to Michigan and Massachusetts.
- How much water does Standing Cypress need?
- Standing Cypress is drought-tolerant and thrives with low to moderate water once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.
- Is Standing Cypress HOA-friendly?
- Standing Cypress is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Standing Cypress fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.