Family: Euphorbiaceae
Author: Cav.
Bibliography: Anales Hist. Nat. 2: 139 (1801)
Year: 1801
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Acalypha
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: S. U.S.A. to Guatemala
Description
The Shrubby Copperleaf, scientifically known as Acalypha phleoides, is a distinguished member of the Euphorbiaceae family. Described extensively in “Anales Hist. Nat. 2: 139 (1801)” by Cav., this resilient plant is native to a broad geographic range extending from the southern United States to Guatemala.
Acalypha phleoides is notable for its robust and branching growth, typically forming dense, shrubby clusters. Its leaves, which often display a rich copper hue, are a hallmark feature that contributes to both its common and scientific names. The vibrant foliage provides not only a striking visual appeal but also serves as an essential component in the plant’s natural habitat, supporting local ecosystems.
The Shrubby Copperleaf thrives in a variety of environments, showcasing a remarkable adaptability. It is commonly found in arid and semi-arid regions, thriving in conditions where many other plants might struggle. This hardiness makes it a valuable plant for soil stabilization and erosion control in its native range.
As a member of the Euphorbiaceae family, Acalypha phleoides shares many characteristics with its relatives. The leaves contain milky sap, a common trait in this family, which can be a deterrent to herbivores and pests. Additionally, its inflorescences, which are less conspicuous compared to its foliage, play a critical role in the plant’s reproductive cycle, ensuring the continuation of its species across various terrains.
This plant’s adaptability and resilience make it a model subject for studies in plant tolerance and survival strategies in challenging environments. Its ecological role emphasizes the interdependencies within ecosystems, highlighting the importance of maintaining biodiversity.
In summary, Acalypha phleoides, or Shrubby Copperleaf, stands out not only for its visual charm but also for its ecological significance and adaptability across a broad geographic range.
Common Names
Eng: shrubby copperleaf
En: Shrubby copperleaf
Synonyms
- Ricinocarpus lindheimeri ((Müll.Arg.) Kuntze)
- Acalypha phleoides var. hirta ((Cav.) Müll.Arg.)
- Acalypha pastoris (DC. ex Willd.)
- Acalypha phleoides var. genuina (Müll.Arg.)
- Acalypha phleoides f. dioica (McVaugh)
- Ricinocarpus phleoides ((Cav.) Kuntze)
- Acalypha ehretiifolia (Klotzsch ex Pax & K.Hoffm.)
- Acalypha lindheimeri (Müll.Arg.)
- Acalypha lindheimeri var. major (Pax & K.Hoffm.)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Texas (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Mar 22, 2016 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken May 29, 2015 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 29, 2015 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 11, 2015 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 11, 2015 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 11, 2015 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Mar 22, 2016 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Oct 6, 2015 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3056578)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:1435-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acalypha phleoides Cav.)
