Croton Indoor Plants of Brilliant Colors

Crotons (Codiaeum variegatum) grown as houseplants require a little extra care, but are well worth the effort. They are available in sizes from very small to five-foot specimens. Genetically unstable, each Croton plant is unique.

Colorful Variegated Leaves of Crotons

The leathery, glossy leaves of Crotons are highly variable in shape. They may be any shape from lanceolate to ovate, fiddle-like or broad. They may also be curling or twisted. Alternate and non-serrated, they are often deeply lobed.

In the original, natural tropical state, Crotons may have green leaves. Cultivars and hybrids are quite different with their diverse color combinations. They may have streaks, blotches or bands of several colors. These range from the reds, orange, purple, pink, yellow or cream to brown or white. Others with solid-colored leaves have contrasting, brightly colored veins.

As the plants mature, their colors may change. The density of color is determined by the light conditions and temperatures provided. The plant produces tiny star-shaped flowers on long stalks.

Croton Lighting and Temperature Requirements

In their native, tropical habitats, Crotons grow in warm, humid conditions with filtered light and regular moisture. Cultivars grown as houseplants thrive in bright light with some protection from direct sunlight. They should be in locations where severe temperature fluctuations do not occur. The temperature should be kept above 60ºF. Leaf loss will occur if Crotons are subjected to cold drafts.

Production of good foliage color is likely during winter if correct light level is maintained. It could diminish during the summer months if Crotons are over fertilized or over heated.

Best Environment for Healthy Growth

Crotons should be planted in good, rich potting soil such as the mix for African Violets. The soil should be able to drain well, but retain some moisture. The flower pot should have a drainage hole. Use only tepid water. During winter, water sparingly. To check water requirements of large plants, test dryness of soil about three inches below the surface. For smaller plants, check about one inch below surface

Fertile, humus-rich environments are required for successful Croton growing. A balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) applied every three weeks during the growing season stimulates vivid coloring. Be careful not to over fertilize.

Propagation, Pests, and Diseases

Softwood cuttings of Crotons propagate easily with use of rooting hormone. Another successful method is air layering. ‚”Sports” or shoots that appear with the main plant can be potted separately. They will produce plants that are not the same color or pattern as the parent plant. Crotons do not grow well from seed.

Crotons grown indoors are susceptible to spider mites. For that reason, it is essential that the plants are misted frequently. Because of the moist and fertile environment, pathogen problems such as root rot can occur. One of the best deterrents is to be sure that the soil is aerated frequently.

Special Notes on Codiaeum variegatum

Sap that leaks from damaged leaves and stems is sometimes irritating to skin.

The Croton plant described here is the genus Codiaeum, species variegatum of the family Euphorbiaceae. Another quite different plant of that family is actually the genus Croton.

Source:

Taylor‘s Guide to Houseplants by Gordon P. Dewolf (Author), Houghton Mifflin Company, 1987