Copperleaf
Acalypha godseffiana · Euphorbiaceae
How it looks
Copperleaf (Acalypha godseffiana) is a foliage plant whose leaves bear a showy pattern mixing copper, green, yellow, and pink. Common cultivars have leaf edges divided into serrations or a wavy shape. Height 12-32 in (30-80 cm); grown outdoors and indoors.
Mild caution — stomach irritation
All parts of Copperleaf contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting and diarrhea if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble of Copperleaf usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the diterpenoid esters in it can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes and cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves or broken stems the same day, and keep the pot somewhere your cat can't reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite clearly drops, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Acalypha godseffiana
- Common name
- Copperleaf
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Diterpenoid esters
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
