Plant guide

Chenille plant.

Acalypha hispida

Pronounced uh-KAL-ih-fuh HISS-pih-duh

Also known as Philippine-medusa, Red-Hot Cat's Tail, bristly copperleaf, chenilleplant, red-cattail, red-hot-cattail

The chenille plant is a tropical shrub famous for its long, fuzzy, red flower spikes that look just like fuzzy caterpillars. It loves warmth and humidity, making it a fantastic choice for a bright sunroom or a greenhouse. You will find it brings a unique, soft texture to any collection.

At a glance

Care level: Moderate
Plant type: Tropical shrub
Light: Bright indirect light with some morning sun.
Indoor light: Bright indirect
Water: Every 3 to 7 days
Mature size: 3 to 6 feet tall
Growth rate: Fast

Care

Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy to prevent root rot. Watch for yellowing leaves, which often signal that the plant needs more light or is sitting in too much water. It thrives when you provide plenty of humidity and consistent warmth throughout the year.

Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Feeding: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer during the active growing season.
Pruning: Trim back long stems after flowering to encourage a bushier shape.
Repotting: Repot in the spring when the roots begin to crowd the container.
Soil: Well draining peat based potting mix.
Soil pH: 6.0 to 7.0

Safety

Pets: This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

How to identify it

Long drooping red fuzzy flower spikes
Broad heart shaped green leaves
Soft velvety texture on blooms
Shrubby growth habit

Science

Family: Euphorbiaceae
Genus: Acalypha
Order: Malpighiales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Also in

Plants toxic to cats and dogs

Is your chenille plant looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.