Acalypha hispida Archives - What's Happening Around Florida

French for caterpillar

by Ralph Mitchell
September 27, 2025

I you have seen a dwarf chenille plant; you can easily understand why the word “chenille” is French for caterpillar. This colorful groundcover plant is covered with up to two-inch-long red to pink fluffy caterpillar-like flowers arrayed ... READ MORE

Category: Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Home Landscapes
Tags: Acalypha Hispida, Chenille, Groundcover

Q: What can you tell me about the chenille plant? I am thinking about putting it in my yard.

by BLOGS.IFAS
June 20, 2017

A: There is a standard variety of Chenille plant, Acalypha hispida, and a dwarf plant, Acalypha pendula. I am going to assume it is the dwarf variety as it is commonly sold in our local garden centers but usually in a hanging basket. Both types ... READ MORE

Category: Home Landscapes
Tags: Acalypha Hispida, Acalypha Pendula, Chenille Plant

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