Plant Passport
Croton
Codiaeum variegatum
LightBright
Water7-10d
PetCheck
PP CODI AEUM VARI
Issued 2026 · Valid while cared for
Croton
Codiaeum variegatum
“I keep my color when life stays warm and bright.”
colorful foliagebright windowtropicalstatement planthumidity loving
- Light
- Bright light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Pet safety
- Mildly toxic
- This month
- Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Bold leathery leaves splashed with yellow.
August care tip
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Bold leathery leaves splashed with yellow.
Quick Care Summary
- Light
- Bright light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Placement
- Best in very bright indirect light to keep strong leaf colour; outside in the Netherlands, harden it off and protect it from cold nights.
- Temperature
- 18–30°C
- Humidity
- high
Free printable Plant Passport card
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Plant Passport
Croton
LightBright
Water7-10d
Botanical stake card
- Format
- 150 x 25mm
- Best for
- Slim plant stakes and gift pots
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View holders →Detailed Care Guide
Watering Method
Water when the upper mix starts to dry, then drain fully so roots get air again.
Soil Mix
rich indoor mix with drainage, warmth and steady moisture in bright light
Repotting
Repot or refresh the top layer in spring when roots are active.
Pruning
Prune lightly during active growth and remove damaged leaves promptly.
Pot Preference
Use a pot with drainage; choose weight and size to match the plant's top growth.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly from March to September; skip fertilizer in winter or during cool rest.
Draft Sensitivity
Keep above 18 C and away from sharp cold draughts.
Sources consulted
- powo.science.kew.org
- www.aspca.org
- www.rhs.org.uk
Room Placement
Window Direction
South, south-west or the brightest east window; filter scorching summer glass when needed.
Best Room
very bright indirect light to keep strong leaf colour
Monthly Care Calendar
Aug (now)
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Bold leathery leaves splashed with yellow.
Sep
Start reducing fertilizer and stretch watering as nights cool. Move Croton closer to the brightest indirect position before autumn light drops Cue: Bold leathery leaves splashed with yellow.
Oct
Stop feeding and prepare for heating season. Keep temperature steady and avoid cold drafts Cue: Bold leathery leaves splashed with yellow.
Nov
Winter risk check: test soil before watering, inspect bold leathery leaves splashed with yellow, and keep the pot draining freely while growth slows Cue: Bold leathery leaves splashed with yellow.
Watering Schedule
- Summer
- Every 5 days
- Winter
- Every 10 days
Feel the upper third of the mix and water when it is just starting to dry.
Common Problems
Propagation
stem cuttings in soileasyspring
Propagate during active growth, keep the material warm and lightly moist, and wait for new growth before potting on.
Pests & Diseases
Spider mites
Early signs
Fine speckling, sticky residue or webbing on stressed new growth.
Treatment
Rinse or wipe leaves, isolate the plant and repeat treatment weekly until clear.
Mealybugs
Early signs
Cottony clusters, scale-like bumps or sour smell near the crown and leaf joints.
Treatment
Remove visible pests, improve airflow and check roots if the problem returns.
Buying Tips
Choose Croton with clean growth, firm stems and no pests in the leaf joints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
Croton leaf colour is light-driven: dim rooms turn the display greener and slower.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Native across parts of Southeast Asia and the Pacific, where colourful foliage grows in warm humid bright conditions.
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