Chenille Plant: Everything You Need to Know in 2023

What is Chenille Plant?

Chenille plant, or Acalypha hispida, is a flowering shrub native to tropical areas. It’s also known as red-hot cattail and red-hot cat’s tail. Chenille plant is a popular ornamental in warm climates, and its showy, fuzzy red flowers make it a perfect addition to any garden. It’s also a great choice for container gardens.

Where Does Chenille Plant Grow?

Chenille plant grows best in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11, where temperatures typically range from 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. It can also be grown indoors in any climate as a houseplant.

How to Care for Your Chenille Plant

Chenille plants are relatively easy to care for. They prefer well-drained soil, and they can be fertilized every two to three months to keep them healthy. They should be watered regularly but not allowed to become waterlogged. If grown outdoors, you should also provide some shade during the hottest part of the day. If grown indoors, it’s important to keep the soil moist and provide plenty of light.

Propagating Chenille Plant

Chenille plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or by division. To propagate from stem cuttings, take a 4-inch cutting from a healthy stem and remove the lower leaves. Place the cutting in a glass of water and wait for the roots to form. Once the roots have formed, you can transplant the cutting into a pot with well-draining soil. To propagate by division, simply divide the plant into multiple sections and replant them in separate pots.

Pruning Chenille Plant

Chenille plant should be pruned regularly to keep it healthy and to encourage new growth. You can prune it at any time of year, but it’s best to prune in the spring or fall. Be sure to prune branches that are dead, diseased, or damaged. Also, be sure to prune the stems to encourage new growth and keep the plant looking its best.