Croton Petra
Codiaeum variegatum 'Petra'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
60 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Water
Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Malaysia, Pacific Islands, northern Australia
Toxicity
All parts are poisonous if ingested; sap may cause skin irritation.
The Story
Plant Bio
Codiaeum variegatum, commonly known as croton, is a species of tropical evergreen shrub prized for its strikingly colorful, leathery, glossy leaves. Foliage varies widely in shape and color, often displaying a vibrant mix of green, yellow, orange, red, and pink on a single plant. 'Petra' is a popular cultivar featuring large, oval, glossy leaves. The foliage is dramatically variegated with shades of green, yellow, orange, and red, often with the prominent veins highlighted in a contrasting bright yellow or cream.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck cuttings into moist soil or water for rooting.
- Place in bright, indirect light for best growth.
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during active growing season.
- Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove dead leaves.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
Pro Tip
Ensure bright, indirect light for vibrant foliage color.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Prune to shape and remove dead leaves
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during summer
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight
- Avoid cold drafts in winter ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Croton Petra questions
Is Croton Petra deer resistant?
Yes — Croton Petra is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Croton Petra bloom?
Croton Petra typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Croton Petra need full sun?
Croton Petra does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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Grow Croton Petra with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
