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Slender Copperleaf

Acalypha gracilens

Last reviewed: June 2026

Slender Copperleaf (Acalypha gracilens)
Photo: James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Acalypha gracilens is a slender annual herb that grows 1-3 feet tall with inconspicuous flowers from summer through early fall. This native plant has a delicate, upright growth habit and provides subtle texture in garden settings. It thrives in partial sun with moderate water needs.

In an HOA neighborhood

Slender Copperleaf takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Inconspicuous flowers may appear weedy
  • Annual nature creates gaps in plantings
  • Can look sparse or unkempt

Wildlife value

This plant attracts bees and beetles during its summer blooming period. As a native annual, it provides nectar resources when many other plants are dormant.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Slender Copperleaf fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.