Adult size
Red Slate Ornamentals are generally expected to reach about 18–20 cm (7–8 in) as adults. Individual Poecilotheria rufilata may finish smaller or larger depending on sex and normal variation.
Do not use one advertised maximum as a promise for a Red Slate Ornamental. Size figures in the hobby are best treated as useful ranges.
How size is measured
Tarantula size is commonly discussed as diagonal leg span. For Poecilotheria rufilata, that gives a rough comparison with other species, but it is not necessary to stretch or position the spider for a measurement.
Estimate size from a normal resting position or during rehousing if needed. Avoid disturbing a Red Slate Ornamental purely to obtain an exact number.
Slings and juveniles
Young Red Slate Ornamentals start far below adult size and grow through repeated moults. With a fast growth rate, Poecilotheria rufilata may spend very different amounts of time at each juvenile stage.
Use the current size of Poecilotheria rufilata when choosing feeders and housing. An adult-size figure does not mean a sling needs adult-size prey or an adult enclosure.
Male and female size
Males and females of Poecilotheria rufilata can differ in build after maturity. Mature males often look leggier and slimmer, while adult females usually remain more robust.
Body shape alone is not a reliable way to sex a juvenile Red Slate Ornamental. Use a suitable moult when possible.
Enclosure size follows the spider
Increase enclosure size for Poecilotheria rufilata when the current setup no longer gives enough retreat space, substrate or practical access for water and feeding.
Moving a Red Slate Ornamental too early into a very large setup can make basic care harder. Rehouse in sensible stages as the spider grows.
Tracking size over time
Keep moult dates and an occasional approximate size for Poecilotheria rufilata if you want to track growth. That is more useful than trying to measure the spider repeatedly between moults.
A simple record will show how quickly a Red Slate Ornamental is growing and when another enclosure upgrade is likely to be needed.