Acalypha hispida

Also Known As

Giant Chenille Plant
Red-Hot Cat's Tail

Plant type

shrub, perennial

size

H: 4'-6'
W: 6'-8'

planting zones

10a-12

More Options

Acalypha hispida plant details

Acalypha hispida is a broadleaf evergreen perennial shrub with green foliage. In fall, spring, summer and winter red flowers emerge. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - dappled shade and regular water. Does well in average, rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something humidity tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Acalypha hispida

Plant type: perennial shrub
Plant family: euphorbiaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 6 FT - 8 FT - wide, 4 FT - 6 FT - tall
Flowers: red blooms in fall, spring, summer and winter
Uses: container plant, houseplant, tropical-looking

GROWING CONDITIONS for Acalypha hispida

USDA Zones: 10a - 12
Sun exposure: sun - dappled shade
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: humidity
Soil needs: average, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This fast grower will bring months of continuous bloom to any sunny exposure. Also known as "Red Hot Cattails," this conversation piece has a shrub-like growth habit and bright green leaves that are continually bedecked with long drooping, furry-red catkins. Makes a fantastic hanging basket or it can be trained into a standard. Acalyphas are fast growing plants that need high light and copious amounts of water and fertilizer.

By: Logee's Plants for Home & Garden

Acalpha hispada is the upright growing variety with large, long red fuzzy cattail like blooms. A vigorous plant, likes full sun and warmth.

By: Accents for Home and Garden

Fuzzy scarlet hanging catkins, 10-20" long, are borne almost non-stop throughout the year on this sun-loving shrubby perennial. An easily grown upright to spreading shrub with large rounded tropical foliage.