Chenille Firetails Plant aka Red cattail

Plant Description:
Chenille Firetails Plant, also known as Red Cattail or Acalypha hispida, is a tropical evergreen shrub prized for its long, fuzzy, crimson flower spikes that resemble caterpillars or chenille yarn. These pendulous blooms can reach up to 18 inches long and appear throughout the warm season, providing a bold splash of color and unique texture. Its foliage is broad, medium to deep green, and coarsely serrated.

Grow Zone:
USDA Zones 9b to 11. Can be grown as a houseplant or container annual in cooler climates.

Height and Width:
Typically grows 3 to 6 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide in ideal conditions.

Uses:
Chenille Plant is used as a tropical accent in gardens, borders, and containers. It is often used in hanging baskets or raised beds where its trailing blooms can cascade. Indoors, it adds an exotic flair as a houseplant in bright rooms.

Native Range:
Native to the tropical regions of New Guinea and the Malay Archipelago.

Sun Requirements:
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent leaf scorch.

Water Requirements:
Prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil. Requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Sensitive to drought stress and should not be allowed to dry out completely.