Acalypha godseffiana

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Acalypha godseffiana, also known as Copperleaf or Joseph's Coat, is a tropical shrub that is native to the East Indies and the Pacific. It is prized for its colorful and striking foliage, which ranges in shade from red and yellow to orange, bronze, copper, green, and white in full sunlight, and is mostly variegated green in the shade. The more sun it receives, the brighter the foliage will appear.

Acalypha godseffiana is a fast-growing plant that is often used as an informal hedge or massed bedding plant by tropical gardeners. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil and should be carefully pruned to prevent it from becoming leggy. When established, it is drought-tolerant and can thrive in USDA zones 9-11 in its natural habitat.

There are a number of cultivars of Acalypha godseffiana available, which come in a variety of colors such as green and white, green and yellow, red, bronze, copper, or brown. The leaves also vary in form, with some being flat and others undulating. The flowers of this plant are inconspicuous.

Acalypha godseffiana is a popular choice for tropical gardens due to its attractive foliage and easy care requirements. Just be sure to provide it with full sun and well-drained soil, and remember to prune it regularly to maintain its shape and size.

Similar plants:

• Acalypha godseffiana 'Heterophylla' (Copper Leaf, Beefsteak Plant, Fire Dragon, Jacobs Coat)
• Acalypha hispaniolae, Acalypha pendula (Strawberry Firetails, Dwarf Cat Tails, Kitten's Tail, Trailing Acalypha, Firetail Chenille Plant)
• Acalypha hispida (Cat Tail, Chenille Plant, Red Hot Cattail, Foxtail, Red Hot Poker)
• Acalypha Inferno (Flame Copper leaf)
• Acalypha wilkesiana (Fire Dragon Acalypha, Hoja de Cobre, Copper Leaf)