Red-hot Cat Tail Acalypha hispida

Chenille Plant is a vigorous tropical shrub in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) that is native to tropical areas. of the south Pacific. Genus name comes from the Greek name for nettles because of the nettle-like appearance of the leaves. Specific epithet means bristly regarding the bristly nature of the leaves. 

The plant can grow 4-6 feet tall and wide and prefers full sun to partial shade. It tolerates a wide range of soil pH and soil textures including clay soils and requires moderate moisture but not poorly drained soils. It has some drought tolerance once established but poor salt tolerance.  Prune after flowering to maintain the desired size. Indoor plants should be fed monthly from spring through summer and need temperatures above 60 degrees F and high humidity.

The showy flowers occur in pendulous clusters up to 18 inches long in pink to red colors. The large glossy leaves are heart-shaped and attractive.

In zones 10-11 it can be grown as a hedge, specimen or container plant. It can be used as an annual or brought inside to overwinter in colder winter areas.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Mostly trouble-free but mealybugs, scale, and red spider mites are occasional problems.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti," a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.   

More information on Acalypha.