Acalypha wilkesiana
Acalypha wilkesiana, also known as copperleaf or Jacob’s coat, is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 3 meters high and 2 meters wide. The plant has a closely arranged crown, with an erect stem and many branches. Both the branches and the leaves are covered in fine hairs. The leaves, which may be flat or crinkled, are large and broad with teeth around the edge. They can be 10–20 centimeters long and 15 centimeters wide. The leaves are coppery green with red splashes, giving them a mottled appearance. Separate male and female flowers appear on the same plant. The male flowers are in long spikes which hang downwards while the female flowers are in short spikes. The latter do not show up easily as they are often hidden among the leaves. The flower stalks are 10–20 cm long. Acalypha wilkesiana is native to Vanuatu and occurs in the Pacific Islands. It prefers light well-drained soil and is suited to a protected shady position. It can be damaged by both drought and frost. It needs a minimum temperature above 10 °C (50 °F) and is best suited to hardiness zones 10-12. In South Florida and tropical America, copperleaf is a popular outdoor plant that provides color throughout the year. It is used in mixed hedges and shrub borders and as a specimen shrub. Elsewhere copperleaf is grown as an annual where its spectacular foliage replaces flowers from late summer until frost. Copperleaf is also grown indoors as a container plant.
Light: Acalypha wilkesiana prefers a bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch the leaves. If you’re growing it indoors, place it near a window that gets plenty of light.
Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During the winter months, reduce watering.
Humidity: Acalypha wilkesiana prefers a humid environment. You can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or by using a humidifier.
Temperature: Acalypha wilkesiana prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but will not survive frost.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. You can also add perlite or sand to improve drainage.
Fertilizer: Feed your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Pruning: Prune your plant in the spring to control its size and shape. You can also pinch back new growth to encourage bushiness.
Here are some step-by-step instructions for taking care of Acalypha wilkesiana:
Review
Related products
Contact Info
- Address: Love gardens LLC , nursery warsan 3, Dubai
- Phone: +971 567491900
- Email: [email protected]
