Codiaeum variegatum 'Aucubaefolius / Petra type (assorted)'

Turn any corner into a statement with Croton—nature’s living mosaic. Its glossy, multicolored leaves deliver premium “designer plant” impact in homes, cafés, and offices. Give it bright light, steady warmth, and consistent watering, and it rewards you with richer reds and yellows week after week.

1. Basic Identification

Common Name: Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum
Former Name: Not available
Plant Type: Foliage houseplant
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0061
Alternative Names:
Aucubaefolius (Petra type)
Garden Croton
Joseph’s Coat
كروتون

2. Taxonomy & Classification

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Genus: Codiaeum
Species: Codiaeum variegatum

3. Origin & Distribution

Native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Pacific Islands. Widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Often grown indoors in temperate zones.

4. Visual Characteristics

Evergreen shrub with a bushy, multi-stemmed habit. Leaves are leathery, glossy, and highly variable in shape—from narrow lanceolate to broad obovate. Leaf coloration includes combinations of yellow, red, orange, purple, and green, with mottled, veined, or speckled variegation. New growth often displays the brightest hues.

5. Size & Dimensions

Indoors typically reaches 60–120 cm (2–4 ft) in height and 45–90 cm (1.5–3 ft) in spread. Outdoors in frost-free climates can grow 1.5–3 m (5–10 ft) tall. Leaves measure 10–20 cm (4–8 in) long and 5–10 cm (2–4 in) wide.

6. Light Requirements

Thrives in bright light to full sun. At least 4–6 hours of bright indirect or dappled direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light leads to dull colors and leggy growth; too much harsh midday sun can scorch leaves.

7. Watering Needs

Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top 2–3 cm (1 in) of soil feels dry. Reduce frequency slightly in cooler months. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water to prevent root rot.

8. Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining, fertile potting mix. A blend of peat moss or coco coir, perlite, and pine bark works well. Soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0). Repot every 2–3 years or when root-bound.

9. Temperature & Humidity

Prefers warm temperatures between 18–29 °C (65–85 °F). Minimum 15 °C (60 °F). Sensitive to cold drafts. High humidity (50–80%) encourages vibrant foliage; use a humidifier or pebble tray in dry indoor environments.

10. Fertilization

Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK) every 4–6 weeks during the spring and summer growing season. Reduce feeding in fall and winter.

11. Maintenance & Care Level

Moderate care. Requires regular monitoring of light, moisture, and humidity. Prune leggy stems to maintain shape. Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust and allow for optimal photosynthesis.

12. Growth & Propagation

Propagate easily by semi-ripe stem cuttings. Take 8–12 cm (3–5 in) cuttings with at least two nodes, remove lower leaves, and root in water or moist potting mix under warm, humid conditions. Rooting takes 4–6 weeks.

13. Common Problems

Leaf drop or fading colors from low light or overwatering. Brown leaf tips indicate low humidity or salt buildup. Susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale—inspect regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

14. Benefits & Uses

Valuable ornamental plant for indoor and outdoor landscapes, prized for its colorful foliage. Can serve as a focal point in mixed containers or tropical garden beds. Some air-purifying qualities by removing common indoor pollutants.

15. Toxicity & Safety

All parts contain a milky sap with diterpenoid toxins; ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Sap may irritate skin and eyes. Keep out of reach of children and pets.