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Java White Acalypha (Acalypha wilkesiana 'Java White') growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Java White Acalypha — South Florida Plant Guide

Acalypha wilkesiana 'Java White'

Family: Euphorbiaceae · Shrub

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

Landscape Uses

hedgefoundation plantingaccentmass plantingspecimen

Style Tags

tropicalresortcolorful

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial Sun

Water Requirements

Low — 3/10

Once established (12–18 months), Java White Acalypha is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Moderate water once established. Water 2x per week during dry season; rainy season rainfall usually sufficient for established plants. Good drainage essential. More drought tolerant than A. hispida.

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestoneloam

Fertilizer: Balanced slow-release 8-2-12 plus micronutrients in limestone soils.

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

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (4/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
4–8 ft
Mature Width
3–6 ft
Growth Rate
fast
Water Demand
3/10
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 Java White Acalypha at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Java White Acalypha grow in South Florida?

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

Is Java White Acalypha safe for pets?

Java White Acalypha is not safe for pets. Euphorbiaceae — milky sap mildly toxic if ingested. Low risk in landscape settings.

How much water does Java White Acalypha need in South Florida?

Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), Java White Acalypha is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Java White Acalypha tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Java White Acalypha has moderate salt tolerance (4/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is Java White Acalypha available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Java White Acalypha is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed. Common in HOA landscapes throughout Miami-Dade.

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

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed. Popular in Broward HOA communities.

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

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Cold sensitivity limits northern Palm Beach County exposure.

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

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. Used in Naples area landscapes.

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

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Moderate salt tolerance — inland or protected Keys sites.

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.

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