Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, then drain completely. Keep the root zone lightly moist, not soggy; reduce watering in winter and never leave the pot standing in water.
A tropical croton grown for leathery, oakleaf-shaped foliage splashed with green, yellow, orange, and red. Best grown as a houseplant or movable patio container in Phoenix.
Milky sap irritates skin/eyes and is toxic if ingested (GI upset in pets and children)
Care Instructions
Light: Bright, indirect light indoors; gentle morning sun can enhance color after gradual acclimation. Outdoors, provide filtered light and protection from intense Phoenix afternoon sun.
Water: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, then drain completely. Keep the root zone lightly moist, not soggy; reduce watering in winter and never leave the pot standing in water.
Soil: Rich, well-drained potting mix amended with perlite and fine orchid bark. Use a container with drainage holes.
Mature size: Usually 3–6 feet tall and 2–4 feet wide in containers; can grow larger in frost-free tropical landscapes.
Bloom: Occasional small flower clusters on mature plants, typically in warmer months; flowering is uncommon indoors.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen; may shed leaves in response to cold, drought, or abrupt environmental changes.
Growth rate: Moderate in warm, bright conditions; slower indoors or during winter.