How to Propagate Copperleaf Plant (Acalypha wilkesiana) in 2 Easy Ways

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Copperleaf Plant (Acalypha wilkesiana) is best propagated from stem cuttings which can be rooted either in water or in soil.

Acalypha wilkesiana is best propagated at the beginning of the growing season (spring to early summer) when in active growth for faster establishment.

Copperleaf Plant also called Jacob's Coat or Fire Dragon is a popular vibrant plant which exhibits attractive leaf colors making it a great accent plant in any space.

It bears broad, ovate to heart-shaped, serrated leaves which can range from red, copper, bronze to pink, green and white, giving them a beautiful vibrant appearance.

If you are looking to multiply your Copperleaf Plant. Keep reading to learn more on the following 2 methods by which you can increase these colorful plants.

1. Propagating Copperleaf Plant from stem cuttings in water

1. Take a 4-5 inches stem cutting from a healthy plant and ensure it has at least 2-3 leaf nodes as this is where new growth will come from.


2. Strip off the lower leaves and dip the lower cut end in a rooting hormone to hasten rooting.


3. Submerge 2-3 inches of the cuttings in a jar of plain water or in a propagation station while making sure that the leaves are well above the water surface.


4. Place the set up in a warm, well-lit spot away from direct sunlight. Change the water every 5-7 days.


5. When a good amount of roots have formed on the cuttings, transfer the cuttings into individual pots in moist rooting soil.


6. Position the set up in a warm, well-lit place away from direct sunlight to prevent scorching.


7. Maintain the soil moist until new growth has emerged and substantial growth has been observed.


8. Transfer the new plant into a pot 1 size larger than the current one in well-drained soil. At this point you can begin routine care.

2. Propagating Copperleaf Plant from stem cuttings in soil

1. Take a 4-5 inches soft stem cutting from a healthy plant and confirm that it has at least 2-3 leaf nodes as this is where new growth will come from.


2. Strip off the lower leaves and dip the lower cut end in rooting powder to promote rooting.


3. Select a rooting container and ensure that it has adequate drainage to prevent the soil from getting soggy as it can lead to rotting.


4. Fill the container with free-draining soil and wet it slightly. Make a hole in the center and ensure that the hole is slightly wider than the base of the stem cutting.


5. Insert about 2-3 inches of the lower cut end of the stem cutting in the previously made hole and lightly firm the soil around the stem cutting while taking care not to bury it too deep.


6. To hasten rooting of the cutting, create a mini-greenhouse by covering the set up with a clear polythene sheet or bag. Ensure the leaves of the cutting do not touch the sheet or bag too much by propping it up with sticks.


7. Place the set up in warm, well-lit spot away from direct sunshine to avoid scorching.


8. Maintain the soil moist until new growth emerges. New growth indicates the cutting has rooted. In about 3-4 weeks, rooting of the cutting will have taken place.


9. Gradually over a period of two weeks, remove the plastic bag cover to acclimate the new plant to ordinary growing conditions.


10. In 4-6 months, there will be adequate plant growth and you can begin routine care.

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