With very characteristic leaves, the croton it is a plant that you can frequently find in gardens. It is beautiful and that is why people choose them because the color of their leaves between green and red is of great ornamental wealth.
The scientific name of this plant is Codiaeus variegated and it is a species native to southern India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, although it is also possible to find it in the western islands of the Pacific Ocean.
Description of the plant
The croton is a plant that grows wild in forests and thicketsa species that belongs to the genus Codiaeumwhich is part of the family of euphorbiaceae. Its great attraction lies in the leaves, which change between green and reddish according to the season. The plant is an evergreen shrub that shines all year roundIt can grow up to 3 meters tall and has large, thick, shiny leaves.
The flowers grow in clusters, long and well differentiated between the male and female flowers. The former are white and have five petals, while the latter are yellowish and do not have petals.
In addition, there is the fruit, which contains three very small seeds that give rise to new plants.
There are many varieties of croton that vary in the shape of the leaves. The color can change and stain the leaves differently, either through spots on their surface or in the area of the veins or margins.
Croton care
Those who have some experience in gardening know that the croton is a somewhat delicate plant, sensitive to sudden changes in temperature and direct exposure to the sun. That is why you have to attend to their needs to be successful.
The plant does not withstand very cold winters and, in that case, it will have to be in greenhouses. In addition, avoid exposing it to strong air currents, especially if it is dry air.
