did you know?

Native to Malaysia and New Guinea, the copperleaf, like many houseplants, is a tropical. It is a member of the euphorbia family, which includes poinsettias, and it has the characteristic milky sap of euphorbias.

general maintenance:

Groom plants regularly, removing yellowed foliage and dead tassels. Repot in spring if pot bound. The copperleaf grows quickly; cut back hard in spring to keep tidy.

pests/diseases:

Spider mites may occur when humidity is low.

controls:

Regularly hose off spider mites with water, and mist frequently to increase humidity or apply insecticidal soap, following label directions.

how to sow/plant:

Grow indoors in containers. Use an all-purpose potting mix. Set plants at the same level they were in their previous pot. The soil level should be 1/2 to 1 inch below the rim of the pot to provide a water reservoir when watering.

water and fertilize:

When soil surface is dry to touch, water thoroughly until water flows out the pot's drainage holes. Throughout the growing season, regularly apply fertilizer formulated for houseplants, following label directions. Stop fertilizing in winter, when the plant is resting, and resume in spring as days lengthen.

garden hint:

Because the copperleaf needs high humidity, it is difficult to keep alive during winter unless it is in a greenhouse. Many gardeners take cuttings in fall to overwinter the plants.

features:

garden uses:

• Containers
• Indoors

other uses: