Codiaeum variegatum (Croton)

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Plant description

Crotons are an evergreen tropical shrub to 3 metres, valued for the strikingly coloured foliage. There are many named cultivars which have been bred for the different leaf colours and patterns which range from splotches, veining or leaf margin variations. There are also different leaf shapes as well. Colours range from green, white, purples, deep reds, yellows, pinks and oranges. Cultivars are generally smaller in size, growing to around a metre tall.

The croton can be grown outdoors in tropical climates as an informal hedge plant or as a specimen plant. In colder ares, it is good for greenhouses, indoors or as a patio plant. If the temperature drops too low, the plant is liable to leaf loss. It grows best in evenly warm humid conditions, with dappled light. Keep the soil evenly moist. It grows well in containers. Fertilise regularly.

Propagation is from tip cuttings, which also helps to encourage more dense growth.

The sap is toxic, and can cause eczema in some people.

Additional plant information

Flowers

Flower colour: White
Flowering season: not specified

Plant size

Maximum height: 3 metres
Minimum height: not specified

Maximum width: 1 metres
Minimum width: not specified

Sunlight, frost & salt tolerance

Will tolerate partial sunlight.
Light frost tolerance.
Plant is not salt tolerant.

Fauna attracting?

Not specified.

Climate

This plant species will grow in the following climates: subtropical, tropical.

Soil types & conditions

Loam: moist.

Clay: not specified.

Sand: not specified.

Diseases

Fungal rots in over wet conditions

Pests

Whitefly, scale, aphids, mealy bug

Miscellaneous information

Planting season: not specified.

Types of fertiliser: High nitrogen liquid fertiliser.

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