Water
Acalypha indica prefers consistently moist soil but not waterlogged conditions. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Also known as Copperleaf · India Copperleaf · Indian Acalypha
Acalypha indica is a fast-growing annual herb with a long history of medicinal use, often found as a weed in cultivated areas.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Can tolerate some partial shade but may become leggy. Avoid direct, harsh sun.
Regular
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Reduce or stop in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Acalypha indica prefers consistently moist soil but not waterlogged conditions. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Prune Acalypha indica to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back the tips of young plants to promote branching. Remove any leggy or overgrown stems to improve air circulation and overall plant health.
Light pruning can be done anytime.
Acalypha indica can be easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in moist potting mix. Keep in a warm location with bright, indirect light.
Roots typically form within a few weeks.
Repot Acalypha indica every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Spring is the ideal time for repotting. Refresh the potting mix with a well-draining compost.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Acalypha Indica (Acalypha indica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Acalypha |
| Species | Acalypha indica |
Similar in genus Acalypha
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
