Kiss-me-quick
acalypha indica
Also known as: ["Indian Nettle","Three-seeded Mercury"]
Overview
A small annual herb with green leaves and inconspicuous flowers, often used in traditional medicine.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Acalypha |
| Botanical Name: | Acalypha indica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a warm, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; major pruning in early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight if needed; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows in summer.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil mix annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–80°F (18–27°C); can tolerate mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on plant's growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; can also be propagated by division if the plant is clump-forming.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least 2 nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or moist soil.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water; can also use a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems; also remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools before use; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; may need repotting if growth slows or the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting foliage; water deeply to encourage root growth, and ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or bud drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to leaf drop and eventual decline.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may lead to reduced flowering or leaf drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering to combat dehydration.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type and dilution; water before application; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Acalypha indica. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive system, causing discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Acalypha indica can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAcalypha indica contains saponins and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Acalypha indica toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How do I propagate Acalypha indica?
A: It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Acalypha indica?
A: It has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including skin conditions and respiratory issues.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
