Shrub
Croton
Codiaeum variegatum
Varieties We Carry
MameyCodiaeum variegatumZANZIBARCodiaeum variegatumFranklin RooseveltCodiaeum variegatum
Sizes & Pricing
8 inFrom$14.95
1 galFrom$14.95
2 galFrom$14.95
3 galFrom$12.95
7 galFrom$49.95
15 galFrom$150.00
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 19.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size3-6 feet × 3-5 feet (varies by cultivar)
About Croton
Croton (Codiaeum variegatum) is a bold tropical shrub from Malaysia and the Pacific Islands renowned for its thick, leathery leaves splashed with combinations of yellow, orange, red, and green. Hundreds of cultivars exist, making it one of the most diverse foliage plants in tropical horticulture. Starting at $12.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Non-showy
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Bloom season. Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Croton develops the most vivid foliage color in full sun (6+ hours daily); insufficient light causes faded, washed-out leaves. In NE Florida, full sun is ideal for most cultivars, though some may benefit from midday dappled shade during peak summer to prevent leaf scorch.
Water
Water regularly to maintain evenly moist but well-drained soil; Croton does not tolerate 'wet feet' or prolonged drought. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance. In NE Florida, reduce irrigation frequency in winter and water only when the top 2–3 inches of soil are dry.
Soil & Fertilizer
Croton grows best in well-drained sandy loam amended with compost. Apply a balanced slow-release granular fertilizer in spring and again in midsummer; avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth at the expense of color. Protect from frost — in 9b, plants may defoliate during freezes but typically recover from the roots.
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Common questions
Is Croton a good plant for St. Augustine?
Croton is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with medium salt tolerance, reaching 3-6 feet × 3-5 feet (varies by cultivar).
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.