Acalypha hispida aka Red Hot Cat's Tail

Acalypha hispida is an evergreen shrub in the spurge family. Gardeners call it chenille plant or red-hot cat's tail. It comes from New Guinea, Malaysia, and nearby Pacific islands. It grows along roads and in forests after disturbance. Most garden plants reach 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 metres) tall. They can spread 5–8 feet (1.5–2.4 metres) wide. RHS gives a taller garden limit of 8.2 feet (2.5 metres). Wild plants can reach 13 feet (4 metres).

The shrub grows upright, then spreads through several woody stems. New stems are green, and the bark offers little interest. The large leaves give the plant a coarse look. Each leaf is oval or heart-shaped, with a toothed edge. Leaves grow in turn along the stems, rather than opposite each other. They stay green through the year and may feel bristly. Leaf length ranges from 0.3–0.7 feet (0.1–0.2 metres). The plant grows fast, though NC State rates its speed as medium.

Small flowers crowd together in long, soft-looking racemes. These hang from the points where leaves meet stems. Their red or deep pink colour lasts through long bloom periods. Flower clusters can reach 1.5 feet (0.45 metres) long. Plants may bloom in any month, with a summer peak. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. Nursery plants are female, and Florida's account reports no fruit. The hanging blooms suit baskets, pots, borders, and accent plantings. In warm places, gardeners also grow it as a hedge.

Give it moist soil that drains well. It accepts sand, loam, clay, and a broad pH range. Full sun supports strong growth and bloom, though partial shade also works. Indoors, it needs bright light and high humidity. Shelter outdoor pots from harsh afternoon sun. Established plants can bear some drought but tolerate salt poorly. Most sources place it in USDA zones 10–11; Florida includes zone 9b. RHS rates it H1B for UK conditions. In cold climates, bring pots inside before frost. Water less in winter, while keeping the soil just moist.

Major diseases are uncommon, but several pests can cause trouble. Watch for mites, mealybugs, scale, whitefly, and aphids. Stem cuttings provide a way to raise new plants. Useful Tropical Plants reports cooked leaves as food and records medicinal uses. That same source warns that all parts can poison people. The sap can upset the stomach and badly irritate skin. ASPCA also identifies risks to dogs, cats, and horses. Eating it can cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhoea in pets.