Genus of about 430 species of evergreen shrubs and trees, and annuals, from tropical and subtropical regions. There are two distinct groups of Acalypha. The more popular tipe bears long tassels of tiny flowers amongst its plain foliage and the other type has colourful foliage with insignificants blooms. All Acalyphas are woody shrubs (excluding A. hispaniolae). Acalyphas are quick growing but the problem is the high humidity requirement.