Croton
Codiaeum variegatum
The croton is a fiery, tropical foliage plant splashed in red, orange, yellow, and green. It craves light to keep its bold colors.
How to identify Croton
Look for these tell-tale features when identifying Croton (Codiaeum variegatum).
- Thick, leathery leaves in bold multicolor patterns
- Varied leaf shapes (oval, oak-like, twisted)
- Bushy, upright habit
Croton care guide
Everything Croton needs to thrive, at a glance.
Bright light with some direct sun for vivid color.
Keep evenly moist; do not let it dry out fully.
Rich, well-draining mix.
18–27°C (65–81°F); dislikes cold.
High humidity preferred.
Feed monthly in spring and summer.
Is Croton toxic to pets?
The milky sap contains irritant compounds; ingestion causes GI upset in pets and mouth/skin irritation in humans.
Common Croton problems and fixes
- Leaf drop from cold, drafts, or moving
- Dull colors in low light
- Spider mites in dry air
How to propagate Croton
Root stem-tip cuttings in warm, humid conditions.
Fun facts
- No two croton leaves look exactly alike.
- Colors intensify with more light.
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