Yellow Cup Flower
Turnera ulmifolia
Yellow cup flower is a cheerful tropical shrub native to Mexico and the Caribbean, prized for its bright golden cup-shaped blooms that open at dawn and close by midday, and for its nearly year-round flowering season in warm climates.
Passifloraceae (Passionflower family)
Nearly year-round in tropical and subtropical climates; peak bloom spring to fall
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: yellow bells flowers and gaillardias also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Yellow cup flower is the official flower of Cienfuegos, Cuba, where it has become a proud civic symbol associated with warmth and local identity. Its popular nickname "Politician's Flower" in parts of the Caribbean is a wry nod to its habit of looking bright and open in the morning but closing by noon — a humorous cultural metaphor for short-lived promises. Its vivid golden color has long been associated with happiness and abundance in tropical cultures.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; flowers most prolifically in full sun
Water
Low to moderate; tolerates drought and poor soils; thrives with minimal supplemental watering
Soil
Sandy, Well-drained, Loamy, Rocky, Alkaline to neutral
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in sandy, well-drained soil in a sunny spot for the best flowering
Deadhead or lightly trim to encourage continued flowering and tidy growth
Self-seeds readily — monitor to prevent unwanted spread, especially in warm climates
Treat as an annual in frost-prone regions; bring containers indoors before cold sets in
Note: considered invasive in Hawaii and potentially problematic in Florida — use with caution
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Ground cover and low border plant in tropical and subtropical gardens
- Containers and patio pots in cooler climates
- Pollinator and butterfly gardens
- Coastal and seaside landscapes
- Gap-filling and low-maintenance bedding plant
Traditional Uses
- Traditionally used in Caribbean and Latin American folk medicine for fever, digestive complaints, and skin conditions
- Research into Turnera ulmifolia has examined its potential antibacterial properties, including activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria
- Often confused commercially with Turnera diffusa (damiana), which has distinct uses in herbal medicine; they are separate species
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Yellow Cup Flower
Why does yellow cup flower close by midday?
Yellow cup flower (Turnera ulmifolia) has a very short daily bloom window — it opens at dawn and wilts by around 11:30 a.m. This is a natural characteristic of the species and is not a sign of stress or poor health.
Is yellow cup flower (Turnera ulmifolia) invasive?
Yes, in some regions outside its native range Turnera ulmifolia is considered invasive, particularly in Hawaii and parts of Florida, where it self-seeds aggressively and colonizes disturbed areas. Check your local regulations before planting.
What does yellow cup flower symbolize?
Yellow cup flower symbolizes joy, optimism, and the beauty of the present moment — its fleeting daily bloom is a natural reminder to embrace each day. In Cuba, it is an official civic flower representing warmth and local pride.
Is Turnera ulmifolia the same as damiana?
No. Turnera ulmifolia (yellow cup flower) is frequently confused with Turnera diffusa (damiana), but they are distinct species. Damiana is a separate plant with different leaf shape, flower size, and herbal properties.
Can yellow cup flower be grown in pots?
Yes, yellow cup flower grows well in containers. It is an excellent choice for patio pots and balcony gardens in frost-prone climates, where it can be overwintered indoors and brought out again in spring.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Yellow Bells Flower
Tecoma stans
Yellow Bells is a vigorous, sun-loving tropical shrub or small tree producing abundant clusters of cheerful, bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers almost year-round in warm climates. It is the national flower of the United States Virgin Islands and one of the most reliably floriferous plants for hot, sunny gardens worldwide.
Gaillardia
Gaillardia × grandiflora (and other spp.)
Gaillardia, commonly known as blanket flower, is a vibrant daisy-like perennial that blooms from spring to fall. These drought-tolerant plants symbolize warmth, optimism, and resilience.
Osteospermum
Osteospermum spp.
Osteospermum, known as African Daisy, produces vibrant daisy-like flowers with distinctive dark centers. These cheerful blooms symbolize joy, new beginnings, and the bright beauty of Africa.