Description:
Croton plants are known for their bright and vibrant foliage, covered in green, scarlet, orange, and yellow splotches. They do not like to be moved, so don’t be alarmed if they shed a few leaves once they come home. Also known as rushfoil, Joseph’s coat, and variegated laurel, this slow-growing evergreen perennial is native to Australia and Southeast Asia.
Botanical Classification: Codiaeum
Pets And Kids:
Moderately toxic. Ingestion may cause mouth and stomach irritation and possible vomiting.
Plant Parent Care Tips:
- If humidity is low in your home, mist around the leaves with water once a week or keep a tray of wet gravel near the plant.
- Croton leaves are dust magnets. Gently wipe the leaves with a moist cloth twice a month to keep them clean and dust-free.
General Care:
Water:
Crotons prefer their soil to stay consistently moist. Mist regularly if humidity in your home is low.
Sunlight:
Bright light. The more bright sunlight a Croton receives, the more colourful their foliage. If they are in a spot with less sunlight, new leaves will emerge with more green.
Placement:
Place croton in a sunny location such as an eastern, southern, or western window. Their love for humidity makes a bathroom or kitchen a great place for these plants.
Food:
Less is more. Fertilize with half-strength fertilizer once in spring and summer.
Common Issues:
Croton are usually pest and disease free, though they are susceptible to common houseplant pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.
Falling leaves: The croton does not like to be moved, so it might shed a few leaves upon moving. This may also be a symptom of under-watering or it is placed in an area without adequate light.
Drooping leaves: This may be a symptom of underwatering.
Interesting Fact
As it ages, the croton’s colour may darken to nearly black.