Crotons

Crotons, scientifically known as Codiaeum variegatum, are popular ornamental plants belonging to the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. Native to tropical rainforests in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, they are prized for their vibrantly colored and patterned foliage. Crotons are evergreen shrubs that can grow quite large in their native habitat, but are typically cultivated as houseplants or in tropical and subtropical gardens.

The defining characteristic of crotons is their diverse and striking leaf coloration. Leaves can display a wide spectrum of colors including shades of green, yellow, red, orange, pink, and even black. The patterns vary greatly, featuring splotches, stripes, veins, and margins in contrasting hues. Leaf shapes also differ among cultivars, ranging from broad and ovate to narrow and lanceolate, and some may be lobed or twisted.

Crotons thrive in warm, humid conditions with bright, indirect sunlight. Insufficient light can lead to a loss of their vibrant leaf colors. They prefer well-draining soil and consistent moisture, though they can tolerate short periods of dryness. Propagation is typically done through stem cuttings. While generally hardy, they can be susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites and mealybugs. In their native regions, they may produce small, inconspicuous flowers. Crotons are also known to contain a milky sap that can be irritating to skin and toxic if ingested, so caution is advised when handling them.