Acalypha

( ACK - ah - lee - fah )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of flowering plants is commonly referred to as Copperleaf or Three-Seeded Mercury. These plants are native to the tropics and subtropics of Africa and the Americas, and vary widely in shape, size, and color. Plants can be annual or perennial herbs, shrubs or small trees, and while some are grown as ornamentals, others are grown for their edible parts.

acalypha Species and Varietals

The genus Acalypha is a member of the plant family Euphorbiaceae, and includes around 460 species. The best growing zones for Acalypha vary depending on the species. See the descriptions below for more information. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Acalypha bipartita
This species is native to Africa, where it is eaten as a vegetable in some regions, used in basket-making, and fed to animals as fodder. In its native range, this plant grows amongst forest undergrowth, on forest edges, and in wooded grasslands. 

Acalypha californica (California Copperleaf, Pringle Three-Sided Mercury)
This species is an important member of the native Chapparal landscapes in southern California, and is the only Acalypha species native to the state. 

Acalypha eremorum (Soft Acalypha, Turkey Bush, Native Acalypha)
​​This species is native to Australia, and has recently gained in popularity for its ornamental value in gardens. It is naturally an understorey plant in dry forests. These plants will shed their leaves in response to prolonged drought.

Acalypha hispida (Chenille Plant, Philippine Medusa, Red Hot Cat Tail)
This species of Chenille is native to tropical Asia, and is popularly cultivated as a houseplant in all zones. These plants at maturity can reach between 5 and 12 feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide.

Acalypha ornata
This species is sometimes grown as an ornamental addition to home gardens, and the leaves can also be eaten as a vegetable. These plants are native to tropical Africa.

Acalypha poiretii (Firetail Chenille, Poiret's Copperleaf, Chenille Plant )
​​This species of Chenille is commonly cultivated as a houseplant in a hanging basket. It is native to Mexico, Central America, and South America. 

Acalypha wilkesiana (Copperleaf, Jacob's Coat, Flamengueira)
These evergreen plants reach 10 feet tall and 6-7 feet across at maturity, and have copper-green foliage with red splotches and splashes. Plant in a protected spot in the garden; Copperleaf can be damaged by both excessive heat and frost. Best when grown in zones 17-26, H1, and H2, hardy to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

Caring for acalypha

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Acalypha plants are susceptible to the following issues and pests:
  • Aphids
For more information on these problems, including how to correct them, see the following links.
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Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
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