Botanical Name: Acalypha wilkesiana
Common Name: Copper leaf Type of Plant: dicot: perennial Character evergreen Habit of Growth: Overall Shape loosely constructed, upright shrubby perennial mostly used for its bronzy or green mottled, somewhat folded leaves; can reach shrub-like proportions if planted in a protected area Height 6 to 10' Spread 4 to 6' Growth Rate moderate Environment: Exposure outdoor shade to part shade – protect from sun and wind Soil well-drained container mix, or well-amended soil Hardiness tender to cold, zones 21 to 23 Morphology: Leaves simple, ovate, altenately arranged with coarsely crenate margins; medium green color often mottled or striped with orange or red pigment Flowers spikes of female flowers toward the branch tips, male flowers in small hanging strings close to the base of the plant; inconspicuous Fruit tiny capsule Propagation: stem cuttings during warm months Usage: container plant or tropical filler used for brightly colored foliage; sometimes used as an annual plant substituted for annual flowers; used extensively in Hawaii and other tropical climate areas Landscape Care: Watering prefers regular watering, keep somewhat dry during winter months; avoid overwatering in heavy soils Fertilizing balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the spring Pruning head back to encourage bushiness Pests/Diseases scale, aphids, mealybug Origin: Fiji Family: Euphorbiaceae Notes: |
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