Acalypha L.

8 species in Aust. (5 endemic, 2 naturalized); Qld, NSW

Monoecious or dioecious shrubs or herbs. Hairs simple. Leaves alternate, margins toothed. Flowers in axillary inflorescence, male flowers in spikes; perianth segments 4; stamens 8, free. Female flowers in clusters of 1–4; perianth segments 3–5; styles branched; ovary 2–3 locules with one ovule each. Fruit a capsule within the persistent bract.