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Acalypha wilkesiana (Copperleaf, Jacob's coat)


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Botanical Name: Acalypha wilkesiana ak-ah-LY-fah wil-kes-ee-AY-nah Common Name: Copperleaf, Jacob's coat Synonyms: A. tricolor Genus: Acalypha
This spreading shrub is grown for its multi-colored, toothed, oval leaves. Use it as a houseplant or as an annual or container plant outdoors where it is not hardy. Flowers are small, green or pinkish, and generally not noteworthy. 
 Noteworthy characteristics: Typically grown as an annual or houseplant. Native to South Pacific islands.
 Care: In the garden, this plant needs fertile, moist but well-drained soil that is rich in humus, and full or partial shade. Indoors, grow in a soilless mix in full or filtered light. Water freely during growth but moderately in winter.
 Propagation: Divide or root softwood cuttings in spring. Root semi-ripe cuttings in late summer using bottom heat.
 Problems: Indoors, scale insects, spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs may be problems. In the garden, downy mildew, powdery mildew, rust leaf spots, and fungal root rots can occur.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Growth Habit Spreads
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Showy Flowers; Showy Foliage
Bloom Time Early Fall; Late Summer; Summer
Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage;Evergreen
Flower Color Pink Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Specimen Plant/ Focal Point, Suitable as Annual
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest
Type Shrubs

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