Multicolored leaves of of various types of croton plants.

Croton Plants

Crotons are eye-catching plants that can add a splash of color to any indoor spaces or tropical gardens. They’re easy to grow and care for, making them a great choice for beginners. In the guides below, we give you tips on how to grow and care for croton plants as well as cultivar selection. We’ll also share some of the most common problems that these beautiful plants can experience, and we’ll tell you how to solve them. New to croton plants? Start here.

How to Grow and Care for Showy Garden Croton

A close up horizontal image of a garden croton (Codiaeum variegatum) growing in the garden pictured in light sunshine on a soft focus background.

Nothing says “tropical” like the colorful foliage of garden croton, with its leathery evergreen leaves and  bright red and yellow accents. If your climate zone is a cool one, you can grow it in a sunny indoor location for a lush island vibe. Learn about this easy-to-grow, long-lived plant in this guide. Read more now.

5 Causes of Fading Croton Leaves and How to Avoid Them

A close up horizontal image of the vibrantly-colored foliage of a garden croton plant.

Tropical garden crotons are prized for having lustrous, leathery leaves in vivid and variegated shades of green, red, and yellow. However, sometimes the colors aren’t as vibrant as they should be. Pale color is an indicator of issues in the growing environment. Read on for five possible causes of pale foliage now.

9 Reasons Why a Croton May Drop Its Leaves

A close up horizontal image of the colorful foliage of a croton plant.

Garden croton is a boldly variegated foliage plant that makes a showy display in USDA Hardiness Zones 10 to 12 and as a houseplant in all regions. It needs little attention but is sometimes temperamental, dropping its leaves under less-than-optimal conditions. Learn 9 reasons for leaf drop and how to avoid them now.

7 Reasons to Prune Crotons (And How to Do It)

A close up horizontal image of a large garden croton with brightly colored foliage growing outdoors.

Tropical crotons, Codiaeum variegatum, have lustrous, lush foliage in vivid hues with dramatically contrasting veins, splotches, and streaks. They thrive outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 10 to 12 and as indoor potted plants in all regions. Should you prune your plants? Read on for seven reasons to pick up the clippers.