Codiaeum variegatum 'Petra'

Scientific name
Codiaeum variegatum 'Petra'

General description
Croton 'Petra' is a highly decorative indoor shrub with leathery leaves that come in a variety of colors: green, yellow, red, or orange, depending on the light conditions. Its vivid, contrasting patterns make it a vibrant and expressive addition to any room.

Origin
A tropical species of the Euphorbiaceae family, native to Southeast Asia and cultivated as a decorative houseplant.

Care

• Light : Bright indirect light; good light allows colors to develop.
• Watering : Keep the soil constantly moist but not soggy; do not let it dry out completely.
• Humidity : Moderate to high; tolerates some high ambient humidity.
• Temperature : between ~18 and 27°C; avoid cold and drafts.
• Substrate : well-draining, fertile soil, with components to maintain moderate humidity without suffocating the roots.

Special advice

• Wear gloves when pruning: croton latex can irritate skin.
• Clean the leaves regularly to preserve the vividness of the colors.
• Repot when the plant becomes too large for its pot.
• Toxic if swallowed to humans and animals — ingestion may cause gastrointestinal irritation.