Source: Wikimedia Commons
Croton
IntermediateCodiaeum variegatum
A tropical plant with vivid red, yellow, green, and orange leaf colors. Creates tropical atmosphere.
About
Codiaeum variegatum, commonly known as croton or garden croton, is an evergreen shrub in the family Euphorbiaceae, native to tropical regions from Southeast Asia to the Pacific Islands. Its most notable feature is its extraordinarily colourful foliage — individual leaves can simultaneously display red, yellow, orange, green, and purple markings — earning it a reputation as one of the most vividly patterned houseplants available. Leaf shapes vary widely across cultivars: broad, narrow, lobed, or twisted. Colour intensity is directly linked to light levels; bright, sunny conditions produce the most vivid hues, while lower light causes reversion toward plain green. Water thoroughly when the soil dries; prolonged drought causes leaf drop. The milky sap is a skin and mucous membrane irritant. A bold, dramatic choice for bright interior spaces.
Size of the Croton
The Croton grows to 30-100cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Croton
It requires warm temperatures (above 15°C) and high humidity; sudden cold or temperature fluctuations also trigger leaf drop.
Basic Info
Origin
Southeast Asia to the Pacific Islands
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
30-100cm
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Watering, Liquid fertilizer
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
The stronger the light, the more vivid the leaf color, and it reverts to green in low light. It handles direct sun, but acclimate it gradually when moving outdoors.
Watering
Water thoroughly once the soil dries. It drops leaves if it gets too dry, so take care not to let it dry out completely.
Temperature & Overwintering
It likes warmth and humidity; temperatures below 15°C or sudden swings cause leaf drop. Keep it in a warm room away from cold drafts in winter.
Soil & Repotting
Plant in a well-draining mix and repot one size up once roots fill the pot. It likes humid warmth, so misting helps.
Pests & Cautions
The latex sap irritates skin and mucous membranes, so wear gloves when pruning or repotting and avoid touching cut surfaces.
Notes
Sensitive to environmental changes, may drop leaves
Croton FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Croton?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Croton get?
The mature size of Croton is 30-100cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Croton?
Croton: watering & fertilizer — Watering, Liquid fertilizer. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Croton?
The price of Croton varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 11–12
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder - Codiaeum variegatum
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Foliage plant. Confirmed by document review to be non-applicable to CITES Appendix (Flora), designated invasive species, or designated animals (the genus does not appear in the CITES flora section; Dracaena spp. listings in CITES refer to a reptile genus of the same name; the plant Dracaena is not applicable).
Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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