Garden croton (Codiaeum variegatum) Plant Care, Flower, Uses

Garden croton

The garden croton is a showy tropical display that does well indoors or in warm climates. Known for its attractive foliage, this plant can have both color and structural variations in its leaves. Leaf colors can include orange, yellow, scarlet, white, and green, and many times all are present on one plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Garden croton (Codiaeum variegatum)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

All year round

Bloom Time

Early fall

Harvest Time

1 m to 3 m

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

Green, Red, Yellow, Orange

Leaf Color

5 mm to 1.5 cm

Flower Size

Green, Red

Fruit Color

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Garden croton

Distribution of Garden croton

Distribution Map

Garden croton naturally occurs across the Southwest Pacific. The species has been introduced in Southeast Africa, South China, and some areas of the Caribbean, and is cultivated as a garden ornamental and houseplant around the world. In its native regions, this plant tends to grow in scrub and open woodland.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests, scrub

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Garden croton is an evergreen woody shrub commonly found in tropical gardens. It is prized for its colorful foliage and interesting leaf formations. Its large leaves and shape make it suitable for landscape hedges and borders. Garden croton is appropriate for tropical-style ornamental gardens. Suggested companion plants include Coleus or Lantana to make color contrasts.

Symbolism

Change, beneficial transition

Interesting Facts

The garden croton is the most varied species of foliage trees in nature, and is extremely beautiful. People are amazed by the peculiar shape of the leaves and the variegated colors. Medium-sized potted plants are often displayed in lobbies of hotels, conference halls, hotels and restaurants, setting a style of luxury; small potted plants can also be placed in bedrooms, on desks and tea tables, giving a lively look to the room.

Name Story

Garden croton: Codiaeum variegatum, also known as Croton variegatum, is as toxic as most Euphorbiaceae plants. It contains an oil that can cause severe diarrhea, like croton. It is often planted in gardens, so it’s also called the garden croton.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Garden croton, including the following common varieties :

Croton 'Irene Kingsley'Croton 'Sloppy Painter'Croton 'Mother and Daughter'Garden croton 'Mammi'Croton 'Magnificent'Banana croton Mamey croton Gold dust Garden croton 'Excellent'Croton 'Batik'Garden croton 'Excellent'Croton 'Norma'Croton 'Revolutions'Croton Petra

Toxicity

Garden croton is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal upset. Contact with sap or thorns causes rashes. Small children may be poisoned by ingestion, resulting in vomiting, rash, and diarrhea. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if poisoning is suspected to ensure the health and safety of pets.

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Quickly Identify Garden croton

Leaves exude milky sap when broken, displaying variegated patterns and vibrant colors.

Flowers in slender racemes, male white with delicate petals, female yellow without petals.

Smooth fruit capsules encase three seeds, measuring around 9 mm in diameter.

Simple, alternate leaves range from 2 to 12 inches long, showcasing diverse shapes and vibrant colors.

Glabrous, multi-branched stem with vertical fissures and prominent leaf scars, transforming texture as it ages.

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Care Guide for Garden croton

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Garden croton, originating from humid tropics, needs consistent humidity and moderate drought tolerance. Water every 1-2 weeks for vibrant foliage, crucial for indoor settings. Maintaining ambient humidity mimics its natural habitat, supporting its evergreen growth.

Fertilize: Fertilize garden croton every 2-4 weeks with high-nitrogen fertilizer at half strength during active growth. In fall and winter, feed once every 6-8 weeks. Use time-released or liquid fertilizers, and always water garden croton post-application to aid absorption and protect roots.

Pruning: Garden croton thrives with vibrant foliage and requires pruning between early and late winter to maintain shape and promote bushy growth. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent infection. This practice minimizes stress, enhances aesthetics, and supports the vitality of garden croton.

Propagation: Garden croton, an ornamental plant in the Euphorbiaceae family, features vibrant foliage. To propagate, use healthy, non-flowering cuttings with 3-5 leaves in moist, well-draining soil. Applying rooting hormone enhances root growth, improving the chances of successful propagation.

Repotting: Repot garden croton every 2-3 years in spring using a container one size larger with good drainage. After repotting, use well-draining soil, provide bright indirect light, and maintain consistent moisture to promote vibrant foliage and healthy growth.

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Images of Garden croton

Distribution of Garden croton

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Garden croton

Care Guide for Garden croton

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