Codiaeum variegatum is a tropical plant with beautiful leaves of red, pink, yellow, orange, rust and purple

Codiaeum variegatum

Native to the Pacific Islands and Malay Peninsula, Croton Petra, it's common name, is a tropical plant that takes pride on its multiple colors of foliage, which has a wax-like feel.

Although it is already popular in tropical gardens for many years, it is only in the last 15 years when it belongs to the ‘favorites’ for potted indoor plants.

Considered a small shrub, Codiaeum variegatum reaches its maximum height of 6 feet under the right conditions. The leaves—leathery and green at the beginning—are stiff and pointing upward. They gradually change color as the leaves mature.

Because it is cultivated primarily for its colorful foliage—red, pink, yellow, orange, rust and purple, Croton petra require fairly high light to keep their vibrant colors.

If after they mature, the leaves are still green, there are pointers to remember. Crotons that are cultivated in summer are difficult in producing bright color.

In winter, fertilizer must not be exuberant, and proper light is provided.

• For indoor use, potted Codiaeum variegatum thrives well when placed between 3 and 5 feet from a window that receives sufficient sunlight.

• In this case, the brighter the light, the more vibrant are their foliage. This shrub can also be grown outdoors in tropical climates like Florida.

• The best temperature for Crotons is up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, avoid exposing them directly to sunlight as it can wither the leaves. The varieties of Codieaum, the genus to which Croton Petra belongs, solicit heavy watering and high humidity.

• To accommodate its humidity needs, misting it once or twice a week is ideal, especially if the area has low humidity levels. In the past, growers were concerned with Croton’s falling leaves.

• At the present, if leaves start to slope downward or fall off, it is an indication that Croton is dehydrated. If the edges of the leaves are wilted, watering is done excessively.

Try reducing the frequency of watering and observe if it improves the condition of the leaves and their appearance.

The water used should be tepid. Cold water makes the leaves to slope downward or to fall off.

Keep the soil moist at all times. The pots should also have holes for drainage of excess water. Codiaeum variegatum graced the hotel’s interiors in the 40s and 50s in South Florida.

Even today, the outdoor landscape is not complete without the rainbow colors of Croton Petra tropical foliage. Top Of Codiaeum Variegatum