Croton

Crotons are some of the most colorful houseplants that you can find. Their broad, long leaves can sport red, pinks, greens, yellows, oranges and many other colors. They’re very exotic looking plants that can really brighten up any room with their wide range of colors.

The waxy feeling leaves start out as dark or medium green and the colors appear as the leaf matures and can reach ten inches in length. Croton’s are small shrubs that can grow as high as six feet, but when grown indoors they usually only grow a few feet tall.

As with most plants that have lot’s of color, Croton’s prefer bright lighting. But, many of the newer varieties of the plant can survive in low lighting conditions. If leaves are still mainly green after they reach maturity, the plant isn’t receiving enough light.

They should never be allowed to completely dry out, but you don’t want the plants roots sitting in water either. Just keep the soil evenly moist and use lukewarm or room temperature water when watering. The plant can also be misted with lukewarm water several times a week to help with the high humidity needs of the plant.

Both cold drafts and using cold water to water the plant will cause it to drop it’s lower leaves. On plants that are in 8″ pots, you should water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. With larger plants allow the top two or three inches of soil to become dry before watering.

You can use a well balanced liquid fertilizer about twice a month to keep you plant healthy. Slow released fertilizer can be worked into the soil once each growing season. Don’t fertilize the plant from October until February when it’s growth rate is slowed.

Croton’s will actually flower during the spring and summer months, the tiny flowers are about 1/4 of an inch wide and are white. With a little extra care this gorgeous colorful plant will add years of beauty to your home.

Written by Connie Corder for HouseplantsForYou.com, Copyright 2008 All Rights Reserved.