It is probably best to delay cutting the plants back until freeze danger is past (late February), since cigar plant is somewhat cold tender. When established, cigar plant is somewhat drought tolerant, but will require some watering during dry weather. As with most other plants, less frequent watering is needed during the winter when growth is slower.

The browning of the leaves could easily be due to drought injury. Watch to see if the new leaves that are emerging remain green. If the browning spreads to them you may want to bring a sample to or office for examination.

Cuphea micropetala is most likely to bloom in spring and fall. Cuphea ignea can bloom from spring through fall. Both of these species are commonly called cigar plant.