Codiaeum Croton

• Native to Southeast Asia and Pacific islands, belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family with over 100 cultivars available worldwide.
• Leaves change colour intensity based on light exposure, with brighter conditions producing more vivid reds, yellows and oranges.
• Popular houseplant since Victorian times, prized for adding instant tropical ambiance to homes and conservatories.
• Can reach 1-3 metres outdoors in warm climates but typically stays 60cm-1.5m as an indoor plant with regular pruning.

• Water when top 2-3cm of soil feels dry, typically every 5-7 days in summer and every 10-14 days in winter.
• Position in bright, indirect light near an east or north-facing window, avoiding harsh afternoon sun that fades leaf colours.
• Use well-draining potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
• Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertiliser during spring and summer growing season, reducing to every 6-8 weeks in winter.
• Prune leggy growth in spring to maintain bushy shape and encourage new colourful foliage development.
• Maintain humidity above 50% with regular misting, humidity trays, or by grouping with other tropical plants.

• Provide bright, indirect light indoors or filtered sunlight outdoors to maintain vibrant leaf colours. Avoid direct harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves.
• Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter months.
• Maintain high humidity around 50-60% using pebble trays or humidifiers. Mist leaves regularly but avoid wetting the soil surface.
• Keep temperatures between 18-24°C year-round, protecting from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. Move indoors during Australian winter in cooler climates.

• Spider mites appear in dry conditions causing fine webbing and yellowing leaves. Increase humidity and spray with neem oil weekly until cleared.
• Scale insects create sticky honeydew and yellow spots on leaves. Remove manually with alcohol-soaked cotton buds and apply systemic insecticide.
• Leaf drop occurs from sudden temperature changes, overwatering, or insufficient light. Maintain consistent conditions and check soil moisture regularly.
• Root rot develops in waterlogged soil causing wilting and blackened roots. Reduce watering frequency and ensure excellent drainage in pots.