Codiaeum variegatum 'Petra' (Petra Croton, Petra Garden Croton)
Botanical Information
Family | Euphorbiaceae |
Genus | Codiaeum |
Species | variegatum |
Cultivar | 'Petra' |
Category | Tropicals, Woody |
Type | Shrub (evergreen) |
Origin | The species is found in Southern Asia, Indonesia, and the Eastern Pacific Islands. |
Ethnobotanical Uses Disclaimer | Poisonous if leaves or seeds are eaten. Sap can be a skin irritant, so wear gloves when handling. |
Details
USDA Hardiness Zone | 10a - 11 |
USDA Hardiness Ref. | |
Canadian Hardiness Zone | Requires cold season protection under glass. |
Canada Hardiness Ref. | |
RHS Hardiness Zone | H1c - H3 |
RHS Hardiness Ref. | |
Temperature (°C) | -5 - 10 |
Temperature (°F) | 23 - 50 |
Height | 0.9 - 1.8 m |
Spread | 0.6 - 1.5 m |
Growth | Medium |
Description and Growing Information
Shape | Upright. |
Propagation | By root or stem cutting. |
Cultivation | Grows best in direct sunlight with rich, fast draining soil in high humidity. Water often in the active growing season, sparingly in the dormant season. |
Pests | Scale, spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, root rot and leaf spots. |
Notable Specimens | Centennial Conservatory, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. |
Habitat | Horticultural origin. |
Leaf Description | Leaves have short stalks. Leaves are stiletto shaped and variegated with a striped pattern. |
Flower Description | Tiny and star-shaped, hanging down on long racemes. |
Colour Description | Leaves have a dark to medium green base and yellow to red stripes. Flowers are white or yellow. |
Texture Description | Leaves are smooth and leathery. |