Subtropical plant - Plant Encyclopedia Results (Page 3)

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.

Acalypha hispida grows as a large shrub 5-10 feet tall. If trimmed, it can be grown as a hedge or even maintained at a low height shrubs. The plant produces flowers in a variety of shades, including the traditional cat tail red, as well as pink, white, off-white, and crimson or vinous colored varieties. The shrub blooms year round in warmer climates and spring through fall in cooler climates, producing masses of long, bright inflorescences that hang down and give rise to its popular name of "Cat Tails". The brightly colored pendulous tassels are extremely showy. This is a tough and versatile plant which is salt-tolerant and seaside-resistant, and can withstand temperatures down to the 30s F for a short period of time.Acalypha hispida can typically be grown in USDA Zones 9-11.

When growing Acalypha hispida in zones cooler than zone 9, the plant should be grown in a pot and brought in for the winter to a cold, but not freezing, area. The soil should be kept moist, and fertilizer should be used sparingly, but may be beneficial from April to August. Acalypha hispida should be pruned often to maintain a healthy shape and prevent overgrowth. To encourage flowering, the new growth should be trimmed during the winter months.

New hybrid of Copper Leaf with bright red-orange-yellow leaves. This shrub provides year-round color in your landscaping in full sun location. The more sun, the brighter the color. In shade leaves may turn pale and green.

Acanthus montanus, commonly known as Mountain Thistle, Bear's Breeches, or Alligator Plant, is a robust evergreen perennial in the Acanthaceae family native to tropical West and Central Africa. It forms a dense clump of large, glossy, deeply lobed dark green leaves that may reach 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) in length, while flowering stems can grow 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 m) tall. The bold foliage creates a dramatic tropical effect, making this species an excellent choice for shaded borders and woodland-style gardens.

Tall spikes of hooded white to pale pink flowers with purple bracts appear above the foliage over an extended season, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects. Acanthus montanus grows best in partial shade or filtered sun and fertile, well-drained soil with regular moisture, although established plants tolerate short dry periods. It is well suited to tropical and subtropical gardens and also performs well in large containers. Hardy in USDA Zones 9b-11, this striking species is valued for its architectural foliage, impressive floral display, and reliable performance in warm climates.

Acanthus sp., also known as Acanthus, Bear's Breeches, grows in full sun to partial shade and will thrive in most soils, provided they are well-drained. It is a thinly branched unusual perennial with interesting foliage, basal clusters of oblong to lance-shaped glossy, dark green leaves reaching up to 12 inches long. The leaves have silver marks and wavy margins. It produces showy pink flowers in the summer to fall.

The plant needs regular watering, but should not be over watered, as this can lead to root rot. It is a deciduous plant so it will lose its leaves during the winter months. It is a somewhat spiny, but attractive plant. For colder regions, it is recommended to grow Acanthus in a pot and move them indoors once it gets too cold to leave the plant outside. In these cases the plant should be placed in a south-facing window and watered regularly.

Acanthus montanus, Alligator Plant: if you love plants that make visitors stop and ask, "What is that?", the Alligator Plant belongs in your garden. Its spectacular, glossy leaves feature raised veins and deep lobes that resemble the hide of an alligator, giving it year-round appeal even when not in bloom. During the warm season, impressive flower spikes covered with delicate pink and white blossoms add another layer of beauty. A rare and rewarding choice for shaded tropical gardens and collectors alike.