Kingdom: Plantae

Phylum: Streptophyta

Class: Equisetopsida

Subclass: Magnoliidae

Order: Malpighiales

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Genus: Acalypha

Species: wilkesiana

Description: Acalypha wilkesiana, also known as copperleaf or Jacob's coat, is a fast-growing, tropical evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant, colorful foliage, often featuring shades of bronze, copper, red, gold, and even pink. 

Growth Habit:

It's a robust, bushy shrub that can grow up to 2-4 feet tall and wide, potentially reaching 6-10 feet in a warm, sheltered spot. 

Leaves:

The leaves are glossy, serrated, and mostly heart-shaped, ranging from 5-8 inches long. They come in a variety of mottled color combinations, including green, purple, yellow, orange, copper, crimson, pink, or white. 

Flowers:

Acalypha wilkesiana produces small, insignificant, greenish flowers, sometimes tinged with reddish-pink, which are produced sporadically throughout the year. Separate male and female flowers appear on the same plant, with male spikes long and hanging and female spikes short.

Stem:

Erect with many branches having fine hairs 

Uses: it has various uses, including traditional medicinal applications for skin conditions, gastrointestinal issues, and diabetes, as well as ornamental and air-purifying purposes.