An adaptable tropical shrub, you can grow copperleaf in full sun or full shade in both the North and South. It prefers moist, well-drained soil that’s rich in organic matter and regular watering (though once established in the landscape, copperleaf is drought tolerant). You can prune copperleaf at any time.
Do copper plants need full sun?
The best place to grow the plant is in full sun, although it can survive in half sun or partially shaded areas. Direct sunlight, however, makes the leaves more brightly colored. This is why it’s advisable to place it near windows or areas with plenty of sunlight if growing indoors, with temperatures above 55 degrees F.
How big does a copper leaf plant get?
Most Copperleaf cultivars grow 5-7 feet tall. Some of the smaller leafed cultivars may be a bit shorter. They will tolerate pruning and can be kept trimmed as a smaller shrub. They can also be cut back hard in spring or summer if they get too leggy.
What is a copper leaf plant?
copperleaf, (genus Acalypha), any of several plants of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), but usually A. wilkesiana, a popular shrub of tropical gardens that has red, blotched reddish brown, and pink foliage. It is also known widely as Jacob’s coat and as match-me-if-you-can. The copperleaf is native to Polynesia.
How fast does a copper plant grow?
In warm climates, copper plants can be grown year-round. The popular Tricolor Copperleaf Plant is a fast-growing perennial that can reach 3 to 5 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide.
How often should you water a copper leaf plant?
Watering and Feeding
Use a good balanced 10-10-10 granular fertilizer in the spring, summer, and early fall or a liquid food every two weeks during the growing season. However, ensure not to overwater the plant. Soggy soil often causes the plant to wilt.
Is copper a fertilizer?
Copper sulfate is the preferred source of copper fertilizer because of low cost compared to chelated sources. Soil application of copper before seeding is most common. Copper fertilizer can be broadcast or banded with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers.
How does copper affect plant growth?
Copper is an essential micronutrient for plant growth and development. It acts as a catalyst in photosynthesis and respiration and plays an important role in the formation of lignin in the cell wall.
How do you prune copper leaves?
Trim occasionally for shape and height (do branch trimming rather than using hedge trimmers). Give the plant a hard pruning in spring (late March or early April) for bushier growth and to keep it the size you want. Keep a regular watering schedule for these shrubs.
How do you grow a copper plant?
Plant your copper leaf in organically rich soil that has been amended with compost. Copper plant fast growing heavy feeder, so it will grow best with good soil from the start. Allow each plant a 3 foot area to grow and fill into. This plant needs plenty of elbow room to grow healthy and well.
What is a Red sister plant?
Red Sister plants (Cordyline fruticosa “Red Sister”) are a variety of evergreen tropical shrub that belongs to the lily family. Also known as the ti plant or the Hawaiian good luck plant, the many varieties of cordylines are prized for their foliage.
Do deer eat copper plants?
Answer. The problem with recommending deer resistant plants is that a deer will eat anything if it is hungry enough! Coppertone Distylium isn’t on our list of deer resistant plants, though it is insect and disease resistant. It’s a tough plant that can handle a wide range of conditions once established.
