Virginia Copperleaf
Acalypha virginica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states
Pollinators
beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Virginia copperleaf is a native annual wildflower that grows in small, upright clumps with attractive reddish-tinged foliage. It produces inconspicuous flower spikes from summer through fall and naturally reseeds in favorable conditions. This compact plant works well as a filler in naturalized areas or mixed native plantings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Virginia Copperleaf takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Appears weedy and wild to many homeowners
- Annual nature means gaps in planting
- Self-seeding can create irregular patches
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract beetles and flies during the summer months. As a native annual, it provides habitat and food sources for various insects throughout its growing season.
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 Virginia Copperleaf fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.