What's blooming at Baltimore's Rawlings Conservatory
Photo credit: Michael LemmonAcalypha Hispida
At this Valentine’s Day time of year, we thought it appropriate to spotlight the Acalypha Hispida with its unusual bright red flowers and heart-shaped leaves.
Commonly called the Chenille Plant, after the French word “chenille” which means caterpillar, the long velvety tassels hang down from the branches and resemble fuzzy caterpillars or cattails.
The Acalypha is a tropical shrub native to the Pacific Islands and Asia that can grow to 8 feet with an impressive 6- to 8-foot spread. They grow best in a hot humid environment and will continue to bloom year round in the right conditions.
It likes bright indirect sun to light shade and will not tolerate freezing temperatures. It is suitable for containers and can be brought inside during colder months.
Keep in mind that this plant can cause allergic reactions if consumed or if contact is made with any broken parts.
