Glasshouse plants

Codiaeum variegatum
Croton, Joseph's coat

Croton is an evergreen shrub from Malaya and islands in the tropical Far East. The glossy foliage is both variable in shape and size, with highly coloured shading and distinct markings, making it an attractive houseplant. Plants will normally only grow a couple of metres (feet) high.

Sadly, plants can be a bit tricky to look after as they're fussy in their requirements. They need a brightly-lit position away from draughts and a fairly constant temperature between 16-29°C (60-85°F). Keep well watered in summer but infrequently in winter. They need high humidity - either with regular misting &/or using a pebble tray. Plants should be given a weak liquid feed every three weeks or so during the growing period.

Although regarded as a warm greenhouse subject, with careful watering and maintaining an even temperature away from draughts, leaf fall can be kept to a minimum. The main cultivars on sale as pot plants seem to be more easily cultivated in the home.

Ray Waite & Geoff Hodge

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