Croton Variegatum Petra, Croton Norma, Codiaeum Variegatum Petra

Planting and care

Croton is propagated by stem cutting and air layering.

1. Stem Cuttings Propagation by rooting a stem from a healthy, mature plant is a method commonly used to propagate croton and many other houseplants. Rooting involves cutting a stem with at least three sets of leaves. A wound is created by removing the bottom set of leaves, and new roots form at the wound site. The stem is planted in a container filled with the lightweight potting mixture and then covered with plastic to create a greenhouse atmosphere.

2. Air Layering Air layering is a propagation technique in which a stem is rooted while it’s still attached to the plant. The process involves making a diagonal cut through one-third to one-half the diameter of the stem. The wound is treated with rooting hormone and kept open with a piece of toothpick or matchstick. Damp sphagnum moss is packed around the area, with the moss carefully covered with plastic wrap. When the stem roots, it is planted in a container filled with lightweight potting soil or a mixture of ingredients such as perlite, sand and peat moss.

Caring for Croton Variegatum Petra

• Croton likes bright sunlight but benefits from partial or filtered shade during hot summer afternoons. Too much sunlight bleaches the colors in the leaves.
• Water croton until water trickles through the drainage hole when the top of the soil feels dry, and then allow the pot to drain freely.
• Croton is a light feeder that benefits from a monthly fertilization schedule. Use an organic fertilizer.
• Re-pot indoor crotons every two years to encourage healthy growth.

Typical uses of Croton Variegatum Petra

Special features: The colorful foliage and air purification ability.

Ornamental use: Can be used for Container, Foundation, Hedges, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Screening, etc.