Dwarf Chenille Plant
Acalypha herzogiana 'Firetail'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
6 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Water
Requires consistently moist soil
Humidity
Prefers high humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
West Indies, South America
Toxicity
Poisonous if ingested; can cause skin irritation
The Story
Plant Bio
Acalypha reptans, known as Firetail or Chenille Plant, is a tropical, low-growing, trailing plant with lush, ovate green foliage and showy, fuzzy red catkins. This plant is celebrated for its striking, long, fuzzy red catkins that resemble chenille tails, providing continuous color and tropical appeal in hanging baskets and as a groundcover.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in spring or early summer.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Water regularly during first growing season, then reduce once established.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during active growth.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune lightly after flowering
- Feed monthly with balanced fertilizer
- Mulch to retain moisture
Don't
- Overwater leading to soggy soil ❌
- Heavy pruning during dormancy
- Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings
- Neglect pruning after flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Dwarf Chenille Plant questions
What zones can Dwarf Chenille Plant grow in?
Dwarf Chenille Plant is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Dwarf Chenille Plant deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Dwarf Chenille Plant, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Dwarf Chenille Plant bloom?
Dwarf Chenille Plant typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Dwarf Chenille Plant need full sun?
Dwarf Chenille Plant does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Dwarf Chenille Plant with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
