Mystery Plant with Red, Feathery, Marijuana-Like Leaves

A deep red, viney plant with fine, soft, feathery leaves reminiscent of cannabis—but not prickly—seen in a Wisconsin nursery. Two candidates fit:

1. Aralia species (e.g., Aralia cordata 'Sun King')

• Tropical/subtropical perennial, not hardy in Wisconsin (Zone 5).
• Large, compound, lacy foliage in gold or green; some red cultivars exist.
• Grown as annual or container plant in the North.

2. Amaranthus (ornamental amaranth)

• Annual, grown from seed each year.
• Deep red/maroon foliage, fine texture, soft to touch.
• Common in summer bedding displays.

Next Steps

Return to the nursery with a leaf sample or photo. Ask for the botanical name—labels often list it. If it's a perennial Aralia, it must be overwintered indoors in Wisconsin.