Croton
Codiaeum variegatum
A tropical evergreen shrub native to India, Malaysia and the Pacific — and one of the most colourful houseplants around. Thick leathery leaves swirl with yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, and green, often on the same plant. Can be fussy about change: crotons drop leaves when moved, underwatered, or chilled, but regrow when conditions stabilize. The milky sap stains clothes and irritates skin.
Quick Facts
Distribution
Indoor (native to India, Malaysia, Pacific)
Light
Bright indirect light (some direct sun intensifies colour)
Bloom Time
Rare indoors
Soil
Rich, well-draining potting mix
Water
Keep consistently (but not soggy) moist; reduce slightly in winter
Growing & Cultivation
Propagation
Stem cuttings 8–10 cm long with 3–5 leaves — dip in rooting hormone, keep at 21–27°C; roots in under a month
