ðŸŒą PropagateDirectory
Plants / Croton

Croton

Codiaeum variegatum

Also known as: Garden Croton

⚠ïļ Toxic to petsEuphorbiaceaeModerate to propagate

A complete guide to growing and propagating Croton: its care needs, how to take cuttings and root them, how long propagation takes, and how to fix the most common problems.

Croton care at a glance

☀ïļ Light
Bright light with some direct sun for vivid color.
💧 Water
Keep lightly moist; let the top inch dry.
ðŸŠī Soil
Well-draining potting mix.
ðŸ’Ļ Humidity
Prefers high humidity.
ðŸū Toxicity
Toxic to cats and dogs; sap irritates skin.

Track your croton cuttings & propagation in SnipLog

Log when you took each cutting, set rooting reminders, and watch your propagation timeline — free on iPhone.

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How to propagate Croton

Stem cuttings

Difficulty: ModerateTimeline: Roots in 4-6 weeks with warmth and humidity.
  1. Cut a 4-6 inch tip below a node and remove lower leaves.
  2. Blot the milky sap and dip in rooting hormone.
  3. Root in moist soil under a humidity cover in warmth.
  4. Pot up once well rooted.

Common Croton problems & fixes

Dropping leaves

Stress from a move, draft, or dryness. Keep conditions stable and humid.

Dull, green-only color

Too little light. Give brighter light to bring back color.

Spider mites

Common in dry air. Rinse, raise humidity, and treat with insecticidal soap.

Track your croton cuttings & propagation in SnipLog

Log when you took each cutting, set rooting reminders, and watch your propagation timeline — free on iPhone.

Get SnipLog →

Toxicity notes are a general guide based on ASPCA-style classifications — if a pet ingests any houseplant, contact your vet. Care needs vary with your home's conditions.