One of the most boldly colorful foliage plants around, Crotons are a great splash of color for your houseplant collection (or outdoor garden during summer) and give off quite the tropical vibe. But read on before you purchase, there’s a few things you need to get right with Croton care to avoid plant death and disappointment.
Background
Codiaeum variegatum, the Croton, is a genus of plants in the spurge family, native to Asia. These plants grow as shrubs or small trees in their native areas. In the houseplant trade they aren’t commonly sold in tree-form, but they can grow into such. Outdoors, Crotons are winter hardy in zones 11-12.
Size
Crotons grown indoors will usually get around a few feet tall. Outdoors they will get much larger.
Growing Conditions
Light
A Croton should have several hours of bright light each day. This is a plant that can handle a bit of direct sunlight as well. However, too much direct sunlight could start causing burnt foliage. I would say dappled bright light is the most ideal lighting situation. Crotons will not tolerate lower light situations, so it is best not to try.
Crotons in lower light may have leaves that revert back to shades of green and won’t be quite as colorful as Crotons receiving bright indirect light.
Watering
Moderate water needs. I usually let the potting mix slightly, but not completely dry out between waterings. Crotons tend to be picky about being both under and over-watered, so you have to learn how to strike the right balance. It is common for Crotons to drop leaves if they are being over-watered.
Potting Mix
Any well-draining potting mix should suffice.
Humidity
Prefers a higher humidity level. Don’t bother misting the leaves — that won’t really help the situation. They should be put into a room with a high humidity level for a greater chance of success. Crotons that are in dry air tend to be much more susceptible to spider mites.
Fertilizer
Once a month or so during the growing season.
Propagation
Can be propagated with cuttings either into potting mix or in water. Take a cutting that is four inches or longer in length, and remove the bottom leaves before placing in the potting mix or water.
Toxicity
Toxic to animals. Also moderately toxic to humans as well. The milky sap that bleeds out from cut stems can cause contact dermatitis.
Potential Problems
Spider mites, spider mites, spider mites. Yes I said that three times. Keep their leaves as clean as you can to help prevent spider mites. Plants that are under watering stress are more susceptible to pests, so be sure that you aren’t letting your Croton plants become overly dried out.
Leaf drop. Crotons are notorious for dropping their leaves from being moved around. That doesn’t mean your plant is dead though, with proper care it will put out new growth. They are also notorious for dropping their leaves when they are too cold.