Lower Risk

Acalypha wilkesiana (Fijian Fire Plant, Copperleaf, Match Me If You Can)

This large perennial shrub is presumed to be native to the south-western Pacific Islands (including Fiji). The species has naturalised in south-eastern QLD, and possibly northern NSW. Copperleaf is not considered invasive in Australia, or anywhere else in the world. This species has low seed set and its fruit is rarely observed in south-eastern QLD. However, the species spreads vegetatively via layering and may be able to reproduce from stem fragments. A closely related species, Acalypha ciliata, is invasive in India, in areas with a similar climate to that in parts of NSW. Copperleaf is grown for its stunning foliage in various shades of bronze and crimson.