Annual – Copperleaf Acalypha

Copperleaf Acalypha 

Botanical name: acalypha wilkesiana 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 3-5 ft in height and spread 

Hardy zone: zones 10-13 

Growth rate: reaches fully mature size in first growing season 

Foliage color: copper, green, red, pink, bronze, cream 

Flower Color: red

Bloom time: spring, summer

Pruning instructions: deadhead withered foliage as needed 

Propagation methods: propagate by seed sowing 

Landscape use: edging, container plant 

Special features: heat tolerant 

Light needs: 6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 2 inches of soil dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release balanced fertilizer once a year in the early spring before new growth begins to emerge 

Best time to plant: spring 

Best type of soil: loam, sand 

Companion plants: plumbago, lantana, coleus, croton 

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no