Croton Petra - Piccolo

Codiaeum variegatum

[ Pot Size: 4'' | Height: 10" - 14" ]
The Croton Petra has large, thick, leathery leaves in a wide range of brilliant colors. As a member of the Euphorbia family, this plant loves bright sunlight and can grow over 6 feet tall in its natural habitat. Grown as a houseplant, however, the Croton Petra will usually max out at 3 to 4 feet. Croton Petra is especially beloved by the people of Jamaica, as it can be found growing outdoors along many garden paths.

Plants make great gifts for any occasion. Send some green with PlantShed, hand-delivered to NYC + NJ, 7 days a week.

Geographic Origin: Southeast Asia & the West Indies
Features: Colorful foliage
Growth Rate: Slow
Great For: Bright light; Tight spaces

Plant Care Guide

Light

Requires bright, indirect sunlight to maintain bright colors. A few hours of direct light is okay—but too much will sunburn the leaves.

Water

Allow soil to mostly dry out. Water less often in winter.
S (pot 4"-5") : Once a week
M (pot 6"- 8"): Once every 10-14 days
L (pot 10"-14"): Once every 15-20 days
XL (pot 16" & up): Once every month

Level of Care

Easy! Just make sure it has enough sunlight and warm temperatures.

Air Purifying

Crotons remove toxins that can build up in indoor spaces. A general rule of thumb is 1 medium houseplant per 100 square feet of space effectively cleans the air we breathe.

Fertilizer

Feed with slow-release pellets or a liquid, indoor plant fertilizer about 1-2 times a month during the growing season. Do not fertilize in winter.

Temperature

Requires warm conditions above 60°F. Keep away from drafty windows and air conditioners.

Soil

Use a well-draining, All-Purpose potting soil.

Pruning & Propagation

Prune branches and leaves just above a node or leaf set, but do not remove more than a third of the stem at a time. To propagate, take a 4-inch stem cutting with at least 3 leaves, and dip stem in rooting hormone before planting in soil.