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Chenille Plant (Acalypha hispida) growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Chenille Plant — South Florida Plant Guide

Acalypha hispida

Family: Euphorbiaceae · Shrub

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

accentspecimencontainerfoundation plantingtropical garden

Style Tags

tropicalresortcottage

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial SunPartial Shade

Water Requirements

Moderate4/10

Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment, then reduce to weekly once roots are established.

Requires consistent moisture — not drought tolerant. Water 2-3x per week year-round; daily during establishment. Do not allow to dry out between waterings. Good drainage essential — root rot in poorly drained soils.

Soil and Fertilization

sandyloamwell drained

Fertilizer: Balanced slow-release 8-2-12 or similar. Supplement with micronutrients in limestone soils.

Schedule: February, May, and September with balanced slow-release granular fertilizer.

Salt Tolerance

Low (3/10) — plant away from salt air exposure
Mature Height
36 ft
Mature Width
24 ft
Growth Rate
fast
Water Demand
4/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$$
USDA Zones
10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
5/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Chenille Plant at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Chenille Plant grow in South Florida?

Chenille Plant has a fast growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Chenille Plant safe for pets?

Chenille Plant is not safe for pets. Euphorbiaceae family — milky sap can cause GI upset if ingested. Low toxicity risk in typical landscape settings but advise pet-owning clients.

How much water does Chenille Plant need in South Florida?

Moderate water needs (4/10). Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment, then reduce to weekly once roots are established.

Can Chenille Plant tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Chenille Plant has low salt tolerance (3/10) and is not recommended near areas with significant salt air exposure.

Is Chenille Plant available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Chenille Plant is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed. Non-restricted non-native.

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed. Non-restricted in Broward.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Cold sensitivity limits use in northern Palm Beach County.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. Naples area suitable; protect from cold fronts.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Low salt tolerance limits exposed Keys locations.

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

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Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

Need a Spec Sheet?

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Ask about Chenille Plant

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.