Curly Croton (Codiaeum Variegatum)

Curly Croton is a striking ornamental plant renowned for its colorful and vibrant foliage. Native to Indonesia and Malaysia, it is widely used in outdoor gardens, landscaping, and as a decorative accent in patios or borders. The plant typically grows to a height of 40–60cm, making it suitable as a standalone feature, hedge, or border plant.

The leaves are the star of the Curly Croton. They are glossy, waxy, and come in a variety of colors, including green, yellow, red, orange, or combinations of these shades. The leaves often display bold, contrasting veins and curly or wavy edges, adding dramatic texture and visual interest to any garden.

Curly Croton is not only beautiful but also hardy and low-maintenance. It can tolerate a range of soil types and light conditions, although it prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to retain its vibrant leaf colors.

Caring for your Curly Croton

Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
Light requirement: Bright, indirect light to partial shade (too much direct sun can scorch leaves)
Watering schedule: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry
Soil type: Well-draining, fertile soil with good organic matter
Fertilization: Every 6–8 weeks during growing season with a balanced fertilizer
Pruning: Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and shape
Growth rate: Moderate
Temperature: Prefers warm climates; sensitive to frost