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Description
Acalypha californica, commonly known as California copperleaf, is a native of California and a member of the Euphorbia family. It is a shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall with a spread of up to 8 feet. It has bright green leaves that are shaped like an arrowhead and have a rough texture. Its flowers are small and green, and they bloom in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Acalypha |
Appearance
The Acalypha Californica is a stunning shrub with a unique appearance. Its leaves are bright green and have a rough texture. The leaves are shaped like an arrowhead and can grow up to 2 inches long. The branches of the shrub are thin and flexible, which makes the plant easy to shape and prune. In the spring and summer, the plant produces small green flowers that are almost invisible among the foliage.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Acalypha Californica thrives, you should follow the care guide below:
Water
The Acalypha Californica prefers to be watered regularly, but it can tolerate periods of drought. You should water the plant deeply once a week, especially during the dry season.
Fertilization
You should fertilize the Acalypha Californica once a month during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil
The Acalypha Californica prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
Sunlight
The Acalypha Californica prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. You should place the plant in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
The Acalypha Californica is hardy in zones 9 to 11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Acalypha Californica is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
Pests
– Spider mites- Whiteflies- Mealybugs
Diseases
– Powdery mildew- Root rotTo prevent these pests and diseases, you should keep the plant clean and healthy by removing dead leaves and branches. You should also avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
The Acalypha Californica is native to California and can be found in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands. It prefers to grow in well-draining soil and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Acalypha Californica poisonous?
A: Yes, the Acalypha Californica is poisonous if ingested. The plant contains a toxic substance called hydrocyanic acid, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.
Q: Can the Acalypha Californica be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Acalypha Californica can be grown in a container. However, you should choose a large container that provides enough space for the plant to grow. You should also make sure that the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Q: When should I prune my Acalypha Californica?
A: You should prune your Acalypha Californica in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. You should remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Can the Acalypha Californica be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Acalypha Californica can be propagated from cuttings. You should take a cutting from a healthy branch and plant it in a pot filled with well-draining soil. You should keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, warm area until the cutting roots.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Acalypha Californica:- Acalypha hispida- Acalypha wilkesiana- Euphorbia pulcherrima- Euphorbia lactea
References
– “Acalypha Californica.” San Marcos Growers, www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=25.- “Acalypha Californica.” Las Pilitas Nursery, www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/336–acalypha-californica.
