Acalypha macrostachya
TAXONOMY
FamilyEuphorbiaceae
GenusAcalypha
Zone10
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Acalypha macrostachya, commonly known as the Chenille plant or Red-hot cat's tail, is a member of the Euphorbiaceae family. It is native to tropical regions and is known for its striking, long, red, fuzzy flower spikes. This plant is often grown for ornamental purposes and can be found in gardens and as a houseplant.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Ricinocarpus Callosus
Ricinocarpus Cancanus
Ricinocarpus Heterodontus
Ricinocarpus Macrostachyus
Ricinocarpus Neogranatensis
Ricinocarpus Tarapotensis
Acalypha amplifolia
Acalypha callosa
Acalypha cancana
Acalypha caucana
Acalypha caudata
Acalypha cucullata
Acalypha fertilis
Acalypha foliosa
Acalypha heterodonta
Acalypha heterodonta var. hirsuta
Acalypha heterodonta var. psilocarpa
Acalypha heterodonta var. psiloclada
Acalypha heterodonta var. trichoclada
Acalypha heteromorpha
Acalypha hicksii
Acalypha hirsutissima
Acalypha lehmanniana
Acalypha macrophylla
Acalypha macrostachya
Acalypha macrostachya f. androgyna
Acalypha macrostachya f. macrophylla
Acalypha macrostachya f. puberula
Acalypha macrostachya f. tristis
Acalypha macrostachya var. genuina
Acalypha macrostachya var. hirsutissima
Acalypha macrostachya var. macrophylla
Acalypha macrostachya var. puberula
Acalypha macrostachya var. sidifolia
Acalypha macrostachya var. tristis
Acalypha neogranatensis
Acalypha obtusifolia
Acalypha piperoides
Acalypha seemannii
Acalypha sidifolia
Acalypha tarapotensis
Acalypha tristis
Burmese acalypha
OVERVIEW
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Acalypha macrostachya thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers moderate temperatures. It requires high humidity and should be kept in a warm environment. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. This plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, provided the conditions are suitable.Soil
The plant prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A mix of garden soil, peat, and perlite can provide the ideal growing medium. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter to support its nutrient needs.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is suitable for Acalypha macrostachya. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and vibrant flowers.Repotting
Repot the plant every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Acalypha macrostachya can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings in the spring or early summer, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant it in a moist, well-draining soil mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until they establish roots.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and encourage bushier growth. Prune the plant in the spring by cutting back any leggy or overgrown stems. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and flowers to keep the plant healthy.Toxicity
Acalypha macrostachya is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The sap can cause skin irritation, so handle the plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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