Codiaeum variegatum 'Gold Dust' (Gold Dust Croton, Gold Dust Garden Croton)


Botanical Information

FamilyEuphorbiaceae
GenusCodiaeum
Speciesvariegatum
Cultivar'Gold Dust'
CategoryPerennials, Tropicals
TypeShrub (evergreen)
OriginThe species may be 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 Zone10a - 11
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cold season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH1c - H3
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-5 - 10
Temperature (°F)23 - 50
Height0.9 - 1.8 m
Spread0.6 - 1.5 m
GrowthMedium

Description and Growing Information

ShapeUpright.
PropagationBy root or stem cutting.
CultivationGrows best in direct sunlight with rich, fast draining soil in high humidity. Water often in the active growing season, sparingly in the dormant season.
PestsScale, spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, root rot and leaf spots.
Notable SpecimensCentennial Conservatory, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatHorticultural origin.
Leaf DescriptionLeaves have short stalks. Leaves are stiletto shaped and variegated with a spotted pattern.
Flower DescriptionTiny and star-shaped, hanging down on long racemes.
Colour DescriptionLeaves are variegated, with a dark green base and yellow spots. Flowers are white or yellow.
Texture DescriptionLeaves are smooth and leathery.

Photographs