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Mexican copperleaf

Scientific Name: Acalypha mexicana

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Mexican Copperleaf (Acalypha mexicana)

Considerations for Pets

  • As the name suggests, some varieties of copperleaf can have leaves with a copper-like coloration.
  • The plant may be found in gardens and as a tropical houseplant.
  • Acalypha mexicana is a forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass)

Scientific Name and Common Names

  • Scientific Name: Acalypha mexicana Müll.Arg.
  • Common Names: Mexican copperleaf, copperleaf, Pringle threeseeded mercury, California copperleaf.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Euphorbiaceae
  • Kingdom: (Implied: Plantae)
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: Acalypha indica L. var. mexicana (Müll.Arg.) Pax & K. Hoffm.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Occurs in Mexico and North America.
  • Specifically mentioned in the United States, including Arizona.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 10 and 11.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Annual herb, growing up to 35 cm tall.
  • Stems can be simple and erect, or branched and ascending.
  • Stems are covered with dense to sparse, short, recurved hairs.
  • Leaves are ovate, measuring 1.5-5 cm long.

Additional Information

  • Grown habit: Forb/herb.
  • Duration: Annual.

Resources and Further Information

  • Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Acalypha mexicana.
  • Dave's Garden: A community where users share tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.