Acalypha pendula

Common name: Acalifa, cat's tail

Description:

Small perennial shrub belonging to the Euphorbiaceae Family. It can reach 1-2 meters in height, it is characterized by hanging branches that give it a semi-creeping appearance. Endowed with leaves with jagged edges similar to those of hydrangeas .

Its inflorescences form long feathery tubes that arch downwards, red in color, and which give this species its name.

Culture:

Originally from the tropical areas of the Pacific, it is an indoor plant or to be grown in a greenhouse as it does not tolerate cold, and must grow around a temperature of 15ºC.

It requires deep soils, enriched with organic matter that maintains moisture but does not flood the roots.

It requires abundant and frequent watering, not allowing the substrate to dry out.

It prefers to be in bright areas, near windows but not exposed to drafts.

It requires pruning after flowering in order to remove withered leaves and flowers.

Multiplication:

Very difficult species to propagate, mainly by cutting.

Applications:

Ornamental use as an indoor plant or in greenhouses.