Interior Plant Spotlight: Croton

Blog Category: Interior Plantscaping
October 3, 2016 by Amy Lenning, Account Manager

Originally found in Indonesia, the croton is a great interior plant choice for areas needing a little pop of color. As part of the euphorbiaceae family, the croton is in the same family as poinsettias, crown of thorns and the pencil bush. For many years, the croton has been a popular choice in South Florida exterior landscaping as a hedge or bush, where growing conditions are more tropical in nature, producing crotons that can reach a height of six feet tall. Only within the past several decades has the plant been potted and moved indoors. New varieties have been developed to help maintain color under the lower light levels that come with indoor living.

To learn more about the croton, read on.

Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum

Common Name: Croton

Characteristics: Stiff leaves in bright, bold hues of yellow, red, orange, green and pink.

Size: Up to three feet tall when planted indoors

Environmental Needs: With a history in the tropics, crotons like warm temperatures. They do best in environments that do not fall below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, crotons prefer a high level of humidity. You can use a humidifier if needed or simply place the container in a tray filled with pebbles and water. Misting the foliage with water can also create the humid environment it desires. Once in an environment with adequate humidity and the right temperature, it is best to leave the croton alone. Moving the plant around too much will cause undue stress and potentially cause the plant to shed leaves.

Light Needs: Crotons prefer plenty of light to remain colorful. Natural light is preferred, but certain varieties can thrive under fluorescent lights as well. The more colorful a croton is the more light it needs.

Watering Needs: Indoor croton plants should be watered only when the top of the soil is dry to the touch. When watering, be careful how much water you give the plant, as too much can cause the plant to lose leaves.

We primarily sell and maintain the Petra variety. It is known for large oval shaped leaves with rounded edges. With a variegated color palette of yellows, greens, oranges and reds, the Petra makes for a great addition year-round, but especially during the fall season. Interested in bringing one into your home or office? Our team provides full-service personalized interior plantscaping, including design, installation, plus maintenance services of watering, fertilizing, and pruning. Learn more here, or request a quote.

Share
EmailFacebookTwitterPinterest