Garden Croton

Codiaeum variegatum

Growth Potential

Height: 2-4 feet | Width: 2-3 feet

Bold, colorful foliage for summer pots and beds

Garden Croton is a tropical shrub grown for its bold, multicolored leaves in shades of green, yellow, orange and red. It loves North Texas summer heat and adds instant color to patios and entries.

It is not frost tolerant here, so it works best in containers or as a seasonal plant that is protected or replaced when cold weather arrives.

Garden Croton (Codiaeum variegatum)

Best Area to Plant

Location:

  • Large containers on patios and porches
  • Entry areas and courtyards
  • Summer color beds
  • Accent plant mixed with annuals

Placement:

Plant in bright light with some protection from the harshest afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. Use well-drained soil or potting mix. Keep it away from cold, exposed spots, and bring pots indoors before the first frost.

Care Instructions

  • Light:

    Bright light to part sun. Morning sun is ideal, with some afternoon shade in midsummer.

  • Water:

    Keep the soil evenly moist during summer and water pots often in the heat. Do not let it sit in soggy soil.

  • Maintenance:

    Low maintenance. Pinch tips to keep it full and wipe dust from the leaves. Protect it from any frost. It will not survive a freeze outdoors in North Texas.