Codiaeum variegatum

Croton, Garden Croton, Variegated Croton

Message of the Flower

Power to Reject Adverse Suggestions

The Mother’s Comment

The power that comes from conscious union with the Divine.

Colour

Cream white, yellow

Family

Euphorbiaceae

Cultivars

Numerous, including 'Petra', 'Gold Dust', 'Mammy', 'Magnificent'

Person who named the flower

(L.) Rumph. ex A.Juss.

Flower Size

Very small, often overlooked.

Flower Texture

Not particularly notable due to the focus on foliage.

Number of Petals

Small and not typically counted due to the insignificance of the flowers.

Floral Symmetry

Radially symmetrical.

Fragrance of Flower

Flowers have little to no fragrance; the plant is grown for its leaves.

Leaf Texture

Can be smooth, leathery, or slightly textured.

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

Leaf Color

Variegated patterns in green, yellow, red, orange, cream, pink, and almost black.

Structural Variation (Shrub or Tree)

Grown as a shrub; can be trained as a small tree in tropical climates.

Life Cycle

Perennial in its native habitat and where grown in suitable climates.

Blooming Period

Flowers are not the primary attraction; can bloom sporadically.

Climate

Tropical and subtropical.

Water Requirements

Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but not waterlogged conditions.

Soil Type

Well-drained, fertile, humus-rich soil.

Temperature Ranges

Thrives in temperatures between 60F and 85F (16C to 29C); not frost-tolerant.

Sun or Shade

Prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade; variegation can fade in too much direct sunlight.

Susceptibility to Insects and Diseases

Susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and leaf spot.

Pollinators

Flowers are not significant for pollinators.

Habitat

Native to Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific Islands.

Role in the Ecosystem

Primarily ornamental; does not have a significant ecological role outside its native habitat.

Ornamental

Highly valued for its striking, colorful foliage and used extensively in landscaping and interior decoration.

Uses in Other Aspects of Life

Primarily as an ornamental plant.

Endangered Status

Not considered endangered; widely cultivated.