'Fire Dragon*' Copperleaf is a captivating Acalypha wilkesiana cultivar. This fast-growing ornamental shrub is prized for its intensely colorful variegated foliage. Native to the Pacific Islands, A. wilkesiana (also known as Jacob's Coat, Beefsteak Plant, or Match-Me-If-You-Can) is now cultivated as a prized ornamental plant worldwide. Historically, it was classified as a subspecies of Acalypha amentacea, though some current botanical views now consider it a distinct species.
'Fire Dragon' features pairs of heavily textured, large, broad, dramatically curling leaves with a distinctive saw-toothed edge growing along semi-woody stems, highlighted by a vibrant to pale creamy peach-toned pink margin that contrasts beautifully with the rich, mottled interior of coppery-green, bronze, and fiery red hues. The pronounced curling and striking coloration give this cultivar a truly unique and dramatic appearance, living up to its name.
Like all Copperleaf plants, 'Fire Dragon' produces tiny, tan flowers along thin, fuzzy stems at branch tips. These add texture and interest but are generally unremarkable, as the plant is grown primarily for its magnificent foliage. 'Fire Dragon' can grow 6-10 feet tall and wide, making a significant statement. Its robust, spreading habit makes it versatile for tropical/subtropical landscapes: excellent for mass plantings, hedges, large mixed beds, as a commanding focal point, or grown in sizable outdoor containers.
Cultivation & Care: Thrives in full sun to partial shade for best color, preferring consistently moist, well-drained soil. Avoid complete drying. Winter hardy in USDA Zones 10-11; grow as an annual or houseplant elsewhere. Benefits from regular pruning to encourage bushiness and prevent legginess. It is an ideal choice for vibrant borders, patio containers, or as a striking accent.
Important Note for Collectors: 'Fire Dragon' is easily confused with 'Dragon Fire', which has narrower, serrated leaves. Acalypha is a very large genus with nearly 500 species and an ever-increasing number of subspecies, hybrids, and cultivars, contributing to such naming complexities.
Condition: This product is one (1) young, starter-sized plant intended for a gardener to grow to its mature size. You may expect a starter-size plant to be well-rooted, have a root zone of approximately 4 inches in diameter, be a minimum of about 6 to 8 inches tall, and have no blooms or buds on arrival. It may be shipped with or without a pot, as appropriate.
Plants are guaranteed to arrive in healthy, viable condition. This warranty is contingent upon the Seller receiving prompt notification of any issues or concerns with the plant\'s condition or appearance.
This notification must be received within 24 hours of delivery and include in-focus photos that clearly show the plant issue, shipping box, and address label. No other additional, extended, or long-term warranty is expressed or implied.
- Brand: Emerald Goddess Gardens
- Common Name: Jacob\'s Coat, Copper Leaf, Fire Dragon
- Bloom Form: Nondescript
- Mature Size: 8 to 10 feet
- Fragrance: None
- Suggested Uses: Hedge, boundary, mixed perennials, garden pots
- House Plant Adapative: Yes but may require supplemental lighting
- Country of Origin: USA
- Limited Conditional Warranty: Healthy Arrival
- Extended Long Term Warranty: None
- Manufacturer:Emerald Goddess Gardens tm
- Climate: Tropical
- Color: Pink, Green, Bronze Leaves
- Special Features: Brightly colored large leaves
- Species: Acalypha wilkesiana \'Fire Dragon\'
- Sunlight: Full sun to light shade
- USDA Hardiness Zone: 9,10.11
- Watering: Moderate
