Croton

Croton, or Codiaeum, is a tropical evergreen shrub grown for its leathery leaves, which can show vivid combinations of green, yellow, orange, red, pink, and purple. Leaf size, shape, and pattern vary widely among cultivars, so the common name covers a notably diverse ornamental plant. ## Appearance and siting The [North Carolina Extension profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/codiaeum-variegatum/) describes crotons as woody shrubs in the spurge family and notes that their cultivated forms are selected for variegated foliage. Plants may reach about 8 feet in favorable tropical conditions, while indoor plants are often smaller. The [RHS growing guide](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/codiaeum/growing-guide) recommends bright indirect or filtered light, steady warmth, and high humidity; its typical houseplants are about 1–3 feet tall. Outdoors, use crotons only in frost-free settings or move container plants indoors before cold weather. ## Water and handling Use well-drained, humus-rich potting mix and water when the surface begins to dry; do not leave the roots standing in water. Reduce watering during winter's slower growth. Crotons release irritating milky sap when cut, and the RHS notes that all parts are poisonous. Keep plants away from children and pets, and wear gloves when pruning. ## Maintenance Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust. Repot when roots crowd the container, choosing a pot only slightly larger than the root ball. Prune leggy stems in spring to encourage branching; handle cut stems carefully because of the sap.