Firestorm Copperleaf

Firestorm Copperleaf (Acalypha godseffiana 'Firestorm') is a compact, quick-growing shrub grown for its foliage, which mixes bronze, copper, reddish purple and yellow, often with a contrasting edge. It reaches about 1m tall and 70cm wide, so it can be pruned into shape as a low hedge or border. It brings warm, bright colour to tropical and subtropical gardens all year.

Why you'll love it

• Foliage colour all year. Bronze, copper, reddish purple and yellow leaves, often with a contrasting edge, mean the colour does not depend on flowers.
• Compact and shapely. At about 1m by 70cm it holds a neat shape and takes pruning well.
• Quick growing. It fills out fast in warm weather, which gives a quick low hedge or border.
• A tropical alternative to Japanese maple. It offers the same rich foliage tones in gardens too warm for maples.
• More sun, more colour. In tropical and subtropical gardens, a sunnier position gives richer leaf colour.

Where it works best

Low hedges and borders. Plant 60cm apart in a row for a colourful low hedge, and clip lightly to keep it compact.

Mass displays. Set plants in groups at 60cm centres for a block of autumn tones that glows beside green foliage.

Tropical colour contrasts. Pair it with green-leaved tropical plants, where the warm tones stand out.

Growing Firestorm Copperleaf in Australia

Position and climate. Warm, sheltered positions with morning and afternoon sun, in a frost free location. It suits tropical and subtropical gardens. Frost damages it, so in cooler districts grow it in a pot that can be moved under cover.

Soil. Free draining soil rich in organic matter. In pots, use a quality potting mix with plenty of organic matter.

Water and feed. Mulch and water well after planting, and keep up the water through extended dry periods. A slow release fertiliser in spring supports leaf growth and colour.

Pruning. Prune to shape through the growing season. A light clip keeps a hedge dense and the plant compact.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Firestorm Copperleaf as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Tube stock is grown for us, so it is not always in supply. When the tube is sold out, use the notify button on the page and you will be emailed the day it is back. Expect a small plant, with the colour building as it grows in warm weather.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse tropical plants
• Plants for tropical climates
• Low hedge plants under 1 metre for front gardens
• Designing a tropical garden that looks lush year round

Common questions

How far apart should I plant Firestorm for a hedge?

Plant 60cm apart in a single row, and clip it lightly as it grows to keep a dense, colourful low hedge.

Will it grow in cool climates?

Not outdoors in frost. It wants a warm, sheltered, frost free position, so in cooler districts grow it in a pot and move it under cover.

Is it safe for pets?

We have not marked it pet friendly. Acalyphas belong to the euphorbia family, where many plants have an irritating sap, so keep it away from pets that chew foliage.