Codiaeum Petra – Croton

Croton Petra is a gorgeous ornamental foliage plant with stunning leaf colour and variegation. The leaves tend to be glossy and oval in shape with pointed tips. Colours range from pink, through reds, oranges, yellows, light and dark greens – so much colour on one plant! The leaf veins are a paler green and add an interesting variegated dimension. Petra is a very popular Codiaeum and at her best is guaranteed to brighten up a room and lift the spirits.

Please note: These plants will drop leaves if they are unhappy. This might also occur post transit, whilst your plant settles into its new environment.

Horty Hints

Keep it colourful! If you notice the new growth is more on the green side, love your plant with some fertiliser and lots of bright light near a south-facing window.

Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove accumulated dust. Do not use leaf shine as this will damage the foliage. Cut back to size if they become too tall.

Brrr! If you’re seeing excessive leaf drop, it’s likely your Croton is too cold. Consider relocating to a warmer, more humid spot like the bathroom or kitchen.

Light

Codiaeum need plenty of bright light. Direct sunlight for at least a few hours a day is recommended, however avoid the scorching midday sun. They can tolerate short periods of shade, but remember: the brighter the light, the finer the foliage!

Watering

Codiaeum need to be in damp soil at all times. They do not respond well to soil that is very wet or dry, and either will cause leaf drop. Watering your Petra with lukewarm water is recommended.

Temperature

Your Croton also needs a degree of warmth. They are happy in temperatures from 18-29°C but can cope with as low as 15°C. Avoid draughts however.

Humidity

Increased humidity levels are a must. Stand your Croton on a wet pebble tray to improve humidity or mist frequently. Does best in steamier rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Feed

Apply a balanced fertiliser once or twice a month during the growing season. Crotons like to be fed!

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Height & Growth Rate

Crotons are not known to be particularly fast or slow-growers. They will typically reach an ultimate height of around 1.2 metres to 1.5 metres.

Toxicity

Croton sap is poisonous. Keep plants away from children and pets and take care when handling. Wear gloves and rinse immediately if the sap gets onto your skin.

Air Purifying

This plant filters airborne toxins and is part of our clean air plant collection.

Origin

Codiaeum Petra is native to India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and the western Pacific islands.

Please note: images show how this plant may look at various stages of maturity. The size you choose may look different.

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