Inferno Copperleaf

Inferno Copperleaf (Acalypha godseffiana 'Inferno') is a bold foliage shrub that grows about 1.5m tall and wide. Its large leaves come in rich bronze, burgundy and copper tones that hold through the year, which makes it a relaxed, showy hedge or border for warm gardens. It is a tropical plant at heart, so it wants warmth, humidity and shelter from frost.

Why you'll love it

• Colour all year. Rich bronze, burgundy and copper tones carry the plant through every season, and no two shrubs colour up quite alike.
• Big, bold leaves. The broad leaves are larger than those of the smaller copperleafs, so it fills space with presence.
• Dense enough for a hedge. The thick foliage forms a showy hedge or border without gaps at the base.
• Brighter with more sun. Sun brings out the strongest leaf colour, while dappled shade still works well.
• At home in humidity. It enjoys humid air, which suits it to tropical and subtropical gardens.

Where it works best

Hedges and borders. Plant 1m apart in a row for a relaxed hedge about 1.5m high. Clip lightly to hold the shape. It makes a loose, colourful hedge rather than a formal one.

Tropical gardens. Pair it with cordylines, which are a classic partner, or with plain green foliage plants for contrast.

A colour accent. A single shrub brightens a dull corner, as long as the spot is warm and sheltered.

Growing Inferno Copperleaf in Australia

Position and climate. Choose a warm, sheltered position with morning and/or afternoon sun, or dappled shade. More sun means brighter leaf colour. It needs protection from frost and enjoys humidity, which makes it a natural for tropical and subtropical gardens. In frost-prone southern gardens plant it under a canopy, or grow it in a pot you can move under cover.

Soil. A free draining soil enriched with compost suits it, topped with mulch to hold moisture.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly for around 12 weeks until established, and give it plenty of water through summer heat. Apply a slow release fertiliser in spring.

Pruning. Prune or clip as required to maintain form. Light trims keep a hedge dense.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Inferno Copperleaf as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. A tube is the economical way to plant a long hedge. Expect a small plant on arrival, with leaf colour deepening as it grows and receives more light. Plant it into warm soil in spring or summer for the quickest start.

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 more tropical plants
• More hedging and screening plants
• Plants for subtropical climates
• Designing a tropical garden that looks lush year round

Common questions

How much sun does it need?

Morning and/or afternoon sun, or dappled shade. The more sun it gets, the brighter the leaf colour, so use full sun when you want the strongest bronze and burgundy.

Will it survive frost?

Not reliably. It needs protection from frost, so in cold southern gardens plant it under a canopy or grow it in a pot that can be moved under cover.

Is it safe for pets?

We do not list it as pet friendly, so keep it away from dogs and cats that like to chew plants.