PlantFiles: Lance Copperleaf
Acalypha wilkesiana 'Haleakala'

Grew this plant last year (2007) as an annual and absolutely loved it. It easily topped four feet. Mixed with some pale peach gerbera daisies next to it, it made for a beautiful 'moment' in my garden. See picture to the right.

This genus of evergreen shrubs and subshrubs consists of over 400 species from most warmer countries of the world, but only a handful are grown as ornamentals. Some of these are valued for the decorative, narrow spikes of crowded, feathery flowers on the female plants (males are on different plants), while one species is grown only for its showy variegated foliage. The leaves are thin, usually with toothed margins.
Cultivation: They need a sunny to semi-shaded position, well-drained, light soil with plenty of water during summer, and protection from wind. Plants are frost tender Prune lightly to shape in late winter, followed by additional feeding and watering. Propagate from cuttings in summer. Watch for mealybug, red spider mite and white fly.
Acalypha wilkesiana (Fijian Fire Plant, Copper Leaf)
Originating in Fijii and nearby islands, this shrub grows to a height and spread of 10'. With erect stems branching from the base, it is grown for its large, serrated, oval leaves which appear in a wide color range, some with contrasting margins. Inconspicuous tassel-like catkins of reddish bronze flowers appear in summer and fall. It prefers a warm, sheltered position and the foliage colors are best in full sun.
Zones 10-11.