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Description
Acalypha Neomexicana is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is commonly known as New Mexico copperleaf, and it is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide, and it has a bushy appearance with a spreading habit. It produces small, insignificant flowers that are greenish-yellow in color and appear in spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Acalypha |
Appearance
The leaves of Acalypha Neomexicana are the most distinctive feature of the plant. They are deeply lobed and have a coppery-red color that fades to green as the leaves mature. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem, and they are velvety to the touch. The stems are also reddish in color, and they have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces small, insignificant flowers that are greenish-yellow in color and appear in spring and summer.
Care Guide
Acalypha Neomexicana is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can be grown in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Acalypha Neomexicana prefers well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often if the soil is dry.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Acalypha Neomexicana prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.- Sunlight: Acalypha Neomexicana prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not produce as vibrant foliage.- Hardiness Zones: Acalypha Neomexicana is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acalypha Neomexicana is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilizing. If you do notice pests, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Acalypha Neomexicana is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and rocky slopes. It is often found growing alongside other desert plants, such as cacti and succulents.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Acalypha Neomexicana a drought-tolerant plant?
A: While Acalypha Neomexicana can tolerate some drought, it prefers consistently moist soil. Make sure to water the plant regularly during dry periods.
Q: Can Acalypha Neomexicana be grown indoors?
A: Acalypha Neomexicana can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of sunlight. Place the plant near a sunny window or provide supplemental light.
Q: How often should I fertilize Acalypha Neomexicana?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth.
Q: Does Acalypha Neomexicana produce edible fruit?
A: No, Acalypha Neomexicana does not produce edible fruit. The plant’s small, insignificant flowers do not produce fruit.
Related Plants
– Acalypha hispida- Acalypha wilkesiana- Acalypha pendula- Acalypha godseffiana- Acalypha reptans
References
– “Acalypha neomexicana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 27 September 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286332.- “Acalypha neomexicana.” Plant Database. Accessed 27 September 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Acalypha+neomexicana.
