This dioecious shrub has an upright branched habit that forms a densely textured crown. It has bright green oval leaves and the bright red pendent fluffy female flowers appear in a cylindrical raceme from spring to summer. It is an excellent specimen plant for a tropical garden.

Hardiness zones 11 to 12 

Acalypha hispida is naturally found in Malaysia and New Guinea growing in fertile moist well-drained soils that are rich and organic. It prefers a sunny to semi-shaded position with high humidity and is frost and drought tender.

The Red-hot Cat Tail is grown for its flowers and is planted in small to large gardens along borders and can be trim to form a hedge. In cool climates it is grown under glass as a container specimen. It establishes in 2 to 3 years from cuttings and flowers throughout the year. ID 1046  

Acalypha (a-KAL-ee-fa-ah) hispida (HIS-pi-da)

Euphorbiaceae (yoo-for-bee-AY-see-ee)
Spurge Family