Acalypha reptans (Dwarf Chenille) is a compact, somewhat trailing evergreen shrub noted for its unusual and eye-catching, crimson flower spikes, up to 3 in. long (7 cm). Free-flowering, the blossoms are produced sporadically throughout the year. They stand out against the foliage of dark green, ovate leaves. Wonderfully exotic, Dwarf Chenille thrives in hot, humid summer climates. Easy to grow, it is excellent in containers, hanging baskets, as a houseplant or seasonal annual.

• Grows up to 12-18 in. tall and wide (30-45 cm).
• Performs best in full sun to part shade, in fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils. If grown indoors, plant in a loam-less potting compost in full or filtered light.
• Water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings. Water sparingly in winter, keeping barely moist.
• Deadhead the flower clusters before they fade completely to stimulate rebloom.
• Generally disease free. Keep an eye our for glasshouse whitefly, glasshouse red spider mite, mealybugs and scale insects.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings in early spring or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer. Bottom heat will be required.
• Native to Florida and the Caribbean.