Croton (variegated croton, garden croton)
Codiaeum variegatum
Evergreen tropical shrub valued for bold, multicolored variegated leaves; commonly grown as an ornamental houseplant or garden shrub.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: toxic
All parts contain irritating sap (diterpenes); ingestion causes vomiting and mouth irritation, and sap may cause skin irritation—keep away from pets and children.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place crotons in very bright, indirect light with several hours of morning or late afternoon sun. East- or west-facing windows are ideal; avoid harsh midday sun on hot south exposures to prevent leaf scorch.
Water
Water thoroughly until excess drains, then allow the top 2–3 cm (1 inch) of soil to dry before watering again. Reduce frequency in cooler months; never let the plant sit in soggy soil to avoid root rot.
Humidity
Prefers high humidity (50–70%). Increase humidity with a humidifier, pebble tray, or by grouping plants. Regular misting helps but won’t replace consistent ambient humidity.
Temperature
Keep between 15–30°C (59–86°F); avoid temperatures below 15°C and protect from drafts and rapid temperature swings.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellowing leaves and leaf drop
Cause: Overwatering, poor drainage, cold drafts, or sudden environmental changes
Solution: Check roots, repot into fresh, well-draining mix if root rot present; reduce watering, keep plant warm and stable.
Brown leaf edges or crispy leaves
Cause: Low humidity, underwatering, or salt build-up from fertilizer
Solution: Raise humidity, water more evenly, flush soil occasionally to remove salts, and trim damaged leaf edges.
Loss of variegation/faded colors
Cause: Insufficient light or prolonged low light exposure
Solution: Move to brighter, indirect light; gradual increase in light restores color over weeks; avoid sudden intense sun.
Pests: spider mites, mealybugs, scale
Cause: Dry indoor air and stress weaken plant, making it susceptible
Solution: Isolate plant, wipe leaves, apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil; increase humidity and repeat treatments until gone.
✂️How to Propagate Croton (variegated croton, garden croton)
For stem cuttings: take a semi-ripe 7–12 cm cutting with at least one node, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, and insert into a fast-draining mix (peat:perlite). Keep warm (22–26°C), humid, and in bright indirect light; roots form in 3–6 weeks. For air-layering: wound a stem, apply rooting hormone, pack with moist sphagnum, wrap in plastic, and secure. When roots appear, sever and pot.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Native to: Tropical Southeast Asia and Western Pacific islands (Indonesia, Malaysia, New Guinea).
Natural Habitat: Grows in warm, humid lowland and coastal forests with bright dappled light and well-draining soils; often found as an understory shrub reaching sunlight gaps.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering and stop fertilizing. Maintain indoor temperatures above 15°C, increase humidity with a humidifier, and keep away from cold drafts and heating vents.
Spring
Resume regular watering and begin balanced fertilization every 4–6 weeks. Consider pruning to shape and repot if rootbound to encourage new growth.
Summer
Provide bright light with some morning or late afternoon sun, water more frequently as needed, feed monthly, and monitor for pests during warm, dry spells.
Fall
Cut back fertilization, gradually reduce water as growth slows, inspect for pests, and prepare to maintain steady indoor temperatures and humidity.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my croton?
Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry—typically every 5–10 days in warm months and less often in winter.
Why are my croton leaves turning brown at the edges?
Brown edges usually mean low humidity, underwatering, or salt buildup; increase humidity and adjust watering and flushing.
Can croton tolerate direct sun?
They tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun but avoid intense midday sun which can scorch leaves.
How do I propagate croton?
Best by semi-ripe stem cuttings or air-layering: use a node, keep cuttings warm, humid, and in bright indirect light until rooted.
Are crotons poisonous to pets?
Yes. Croton sap is irritating and ingestion can cause vomiting and oral irritation; keep away from pets and children.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025