Offering a bold stance, you just can’t miss croton, thanks to their colorful foliage! Here are the best Types of Crotons plants to grow!
Coming in different shades of green, red, ivory, orange, copper, pink, and brown, crotons offer a splash of color wherever you plant them! This striking tropical plant comes in more than 100 Croton plant varieties, making it quite tough to pick the best! Here are some of the best Types of Crotons that you can grow inside your home and outside!
Botanical Name: Codiaeum
USDA Zone: 9-11, can be grown everywhere indoors
Other Names: Rushfoil, Laurel
Check out our article on the best Peperomia varieties here!
Types of Crotons
1. Zanzibar Croton Plant
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Zanzibar’
Zanzibar can grow up to 3-4 feet tall. It produces green, red, purple, orange, and yellow narrow leaves and works as a great contrasting plant. You can also grow these Types of croton as a houseplant!
Growing Tip:
‘Zanzibar’ prefers bright indirect light for optimum growth, just like other Croton plant varieties.
2. Yellow Iceton Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Yellow Iceton’
Yellow Iceton shows off mid-green foliage with lush yellow variegation. The plant can reach up to 3-4 feet tall. This type of croton can be grown both as an indoor and outdoor Croton plant.
Growing Tip:
This croton variety can be grown in full sun to partial shade.
3. Victoria Gold Bell Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum ‘Victoria Gold Bell’
Searching for Types of croton? This attractive croton has a distinct leaf structure that dangles off from the plant. It comes in orange, red, green, or red color that changes with the light levels the plant is exposed to.
Growing Tip:
Protect the plant from direct sunlight in summer and also from hot and cold air.
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4. Superstar Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum var. pictum
Looking for Croton varieties? The bright green leaves of this croton splashed with yellow spots definitely make it look like a superstar! The plant can grow up to 3-5 feet tall.
Growing Tip:
Water this croton regularly but avoid overwatering. It works well in full sun to partial shade.
5. Red Iceton Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Mrs. Iceton‘
Red Iceton produces yellow leaves that mature in a striking shade of red and pink hues with bright veins. One of the most amazing Types of croton, it attains a height up to 7-8 feet when grown outdoors.
Growing Tip:
Grow ‘Red Iceton’ croton in bright sunlight in a well-draining medium.
6. Sunny Star Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Sunny Star’
Sunny Star features large elliptical light green leaves, dashed in gold color near the base of each leaf. It also works as a great houseplant and can attain a height of 4-6 feet.
Growing Tip:
Partial sun encourages bright yellow color. Grow the Croton plant where it receives morning sunlight and indirect light for the rest of the day.
Learn about Growing Big Crotons here
7. Petra Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Petra’
Native to Southeast Asia, the Petra croton plant features large wide leaves in the shades of yellow, green, orange, bronze, and burgundy red. It can grow up to 4-5 feet tall.
Growing Tip:
Grow it in a large pot in a bright location. Also, check out our list of large houseplants.
8. Oakleaf Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Oakleaf’
The Oakleaf croton exhibits tri-lobed leaves in shades of burgundy, red, green, orange, and yellow. You can plant this Croton plant indoor on walkways or grow it indoors near a good light source as well!
Growing Tip:
Grow this plant in well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering as it dislikes standing water.
9. Mother and Daughter Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Mother and Daughter’
These Types of croton show off long, narrow leaves that end at a point and interestingly give the appearance of holding another small leaflet. The leaves have deep green to deep purple leaves splashed in small yellow or ivory dashes.
Growing Tip:
‘Mother and Daughter’ variety performs well in dappled shade.
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10. Mrs. Iceton Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Mrs. Iceton’
This beautiful specimen displays light green leaves shaded with yellow, golden, orange, and red tones. It can reach up to 3-6 feet tall.
Growing Tip:
Mrs. Iceton croton can be grown in full sun in a cold climate.
11. Croton Mammy Plant
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Mammy’
Croton mammy plant produces thick, glossy, large curly leaves in the shades of red, green, purple, and bright yellow. You can grow it outdoors as a shrub and indoors as a houseplant. It grows up to 4-6 feet tall.
Growing Tip:
It does well in partial shade to full sunlight. Take the Croton plant indoor during winter in colder regions.
12. Lauren’s Rainbow Croton Plant
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Lauren’s Rainbow’
The long, narrow leaves of Lauren Rainbow have shades of yellow, green, and deep purple. It grows up to 4-5 feet tall with a similar spread. It is humidity and drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice as a houseplant. For Croton plant flowering, give it proper care.
Growing Tip:
Want to know about Care of croton plant? ‘Lauren’s Rainbow’ does well in full sun to dappled shade.
13. Gold Star Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Gold Star’
This beautiful, slow-growing variety has narrow dark green leaves patterned with shiny yellow splashes. This evergreen plant is very low-demanding and cherished among Types of croton. It can reach up to a height of 3-6 feet.
Growing Tip:
Use well-draining soil to grow the ‘Gold Star’ variety. Place it at a spot where it can receive at least 4 hours of direct sunlight.
14. Florida Select Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Florida Select’
This showy Red croton plant has smooth and medium-sized velvety green leaves with orange, red, and yellow veins. The plant is poisonous if ingested, so keep your pets and children away from nibbling its leaves.
Growing Tip:
This variety has average water requirements, so avoid overwatering. It prefers full sun to partial shade like other crotons.
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15. Croton Gold Dust
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Gold Dust’
Also known as Sun-Spot Croton, the Croton gold dust plant features bright green oval-shaped leaves sprinkled with golden yellow spots. You can also grow it as a houseplant, but it needs full exposure to bright indirect sunlight.
Growing Tip:
Plant this beautiful variety in bright light for vibrant colored leaves. Keep the plant away from the harsh afternoon sun.
16. Bush on Fire Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Bush on Fire’
This croton produces leathery leaves in the shades of pink, green, red, orange, and yellow. The color of the leaves changes with age. It can grow up to a height of 3-5 feet.
Growing Tip:
‘Bush on Fire’ grows best where it receives at least 3-4 hours of daily sunlight and evenly moist soil.
17. Eleanor Roosevelt Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum var. pictum ‘Eleanor Roosevelt’
“Eleanor Roosevelt’ displays green to purple, long narrow leaves sprinkled with golden yellow hues. Henry Coppinger originated this variety in the year the 1920s. This Purple croton plant attains heights up to 4-6 feet.
Growing Tip:
Water the plant moderately and avoid overwatering.
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18. Banana Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Banana’
Bring colors to your interior by growing this bright croton variety with lance-shaped green leaves splashed with banana-yellow. It can grow up to a height of 3-4 feet.
Growing Tip:
It performs well in light shade with moderate watering.
19. Andrew Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Andrew‘
‘Andrew’ is a popular one among Types of croton plants that produces narrow, long green leaves with creamy white streaks. It reaches up to 3-5 feet tall. You can grow it on hedges too!
Growing Tip:
Provide it with lots of indirect bright light for awesome colors!
20. Magnificent Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Magnificent’
It is a compact choice among Types of croton with huge dark green-colored variegated leaves spotted with pink, red, orange, bright yellow, and purple. Usually, it reaches 5-7 feet on maturity when grown outdoors and 3-4 feet when grown indoors.
Growing Tip:
This variety is shade tolerant, so it would not lose its hue in dim light conditions.
21. Picasso’s Paintbrush Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Picasso’s Paintbrush’
Picasso’s Paintbrush is a variety of thin leaves that lives up to its artistic name with a brilliant pastel color pallet. The narrow leaves also make it look similar to ornamental grass.
Growing Tip:
Picasso’s Paintbrush thrives best in lots of bright, indirect light and high humidity levels.
22. Jamaican Croton
Botanical Name: Graptophyllum pictum ‘Jamaican’
This variety has such a unique set of colors that sets it apart from any other croton variety. The Chocolate Caricature Jamaican Croton looks striking with dark green chocolate-colored leaves and subtle hints of bronze and pastel pink!
Growing Tip:
Water regularly as this plant does not do well in drought-like conditions. Ensure the plant receives about 1-2 inches of water every week and it might give you a Croton plant flower.
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23. Dreadlocks Croton Plant
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum ‘Dreadlocks’
With deep dark green-colored, curled, and twisted leaves, the name suits this variety of Croton plant. The leaves gradually change into bright red, orange, and yellow colors with time.
Growing Tip: Keep the dreadlocks happy with lots of bright, indirect light and fair humidity levels.
Different Types of Crotons: FAQs
1. What are crotons?
Crotons are tropical plants known for their vibrant, multicolored foliage. They belong to the Codiaeum genus and are popular as houseplants or outdoor plants in warm climates.
2. How many types of crotons are there?
There are hundreds of croton varieties, each with its unique leaf shape, color pattern, and overall appearance. Some popular types include Petra, Gold Dust, and Mammy.
3. What are the ideal growing conditions for crotons?
Crotons prefer bright, indirect light, high humidity, and well-draining soil. They thrive in temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C).
4. Are crotons indoor or outdoor plants?
Crotons can be grown both indoors and outdoors. However, they are sensitive to cold temperatures and should be brought inside if the weather drops below 50°F (10°C).
5. How do I propagate crotons?
Crotons are commonly propagated through stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting, remove the lower leaves, and plant it in a well-draining soil mix.
6. Are crotons toxic?
Yes, crotons are toxic to pets and humans if ingested, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation. Always exercise caution and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
7. Do crotons need direct sunlight?
Crotons need plenty of light to maintain their vibrant foliage but prefer indirect light to prevent leaf burn.
8. How often should I water my croton?
Water your croton when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
9. Why are the leaves on my croton losing color?
Inadequate light is the most common reason for loss of color. Move your plant to a brighter location but avoid direct sunlight.
10. Can I repot my croton?
Yes, crotons can be repotted, preferably during the growing season. Make sure to use a well-draining soil mix and a pot that is one size larger than the current one.
11. How do I treat pest infestations on my croton?
Common pests like spider mites and mealybugs can be treated using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure to isolate the affected plant to prevent the spread of pests.
I see I had that backwards. The Red Ice pic is the one with 2 different crotons it seems, the one in the back looks like the Petra. The leaves on the Florida Select also look very similar.
Red Iceton. Forgive me.
it would make more sense when making such compilation, to point out the differences between plants that on pics look exactly the same, as mr cobb pointed out
I agree on pointing out the differences. I need to take photos to look more closely.
The Andrew type is beautiful.
Yes, James, the article might be confusing.
Let me know oak leaf croton and duckfoot croton are same
you should update the listing for number 11. that’s a pretty racist and outdated name
Oh good Lord, get over it, black people aren’t the only ones who can have dreadlocks…..what about the wandering Jew should we change that name too??? Quit giving in to feelings. If something looks like something else it’s human nature to refer to it as such. Take it as a compliment, paying homage to it.
🤙
I believe Zoe is referring to the name MAMMY CROTON on Number 11, which is a racist term! She was NOT referring to the Deadlock Croton in number 23.
Dreadlock is a racist term because it’s called “locs”. If you knew the full spiritual and religious history around locs you wouldn’t say that or agree with any white person wearing them.
You have to face the fact that not everyone knows the full meaning of different ways of styling hair, spiritually and in religious terms. Try not to be so demanding. Lots of races have copied the European hairstyles with wigs, extensions and weaves and no-one criticizes them for their preference, do they?
I agree that when white people wear locs, it strikes a bum note, to say the least. But that is their problem and needn’t upset you.
👏🏽Thank👏🏽You👏🏽
Perfectly said!
Well said! People say what they see and there’s no intention to denigrate or cause offence, so try not to be paranoid about it!
Goodness Gracious I called my Grandmother Mammy and thought nothing of it. I believe you are over thinking this 😕
I think I have a Gold Star Croton but the leaves are longer & narrower than that pictured. Mine has several plants in the same pot (came that way) that are on skinny/treelike stalks with abundant leaves spreading out from the top. It’s several years old and extremely hardy. Does this sound like a Gold Star, if not, what?
Several of the crotons were misnamed.
I have a croton plant but I don’t know which one it is. Looking for another one. Can I send a picture
I believe I have a Florida Select Croton. It flowered for the 1st time in June. I am in Canada so I have to bring it in in the winter. I put it outside near the end of May. I saw the flowers mid-June. I potted up 4 of the tiny seed looking balls. WILL THESE GERMINATE INTO A NEW PLANT?
My like is Message lceton croton.It looks wide range of colors.
There is an app you can use snap a pic of your plant and it identifies it. It’s called picture this you can use it without paying for a subscription. It gives details about the plant
HOW DO YOU DO THIS . I HAD IT INSTALLED THEN DELETED IT ONCE I FOUND VOUT THE PRICE. THANKS IN ADVANCE
WHAT VARITEY OF CROTON HAS 3 LOBES AT END OF LEAVES
Geisha girl, President Reagan, Irene Kingsley, Turkey foot, Thanksgiving, Oak leaf, Excellente, Brazilian, Arrowhead. Crotons I have with three lobed leaves.
Seriously? I’m searching on a plant site for my plant and I see a remark about a plant name being racist. That is so sad you would even make an issue if something so stupid. God does not make mistakes, ever. We all bleed the same. Quit letting the Obidens and the left divide us. God wants us to love thy neighbor and never said anything about color of your skin will mark you. I can’t even say anything else, it just breaks my heart that people act like that. Find Jesus and put him in your heart and follow Him. Your hatred will go away.
I have some Mammys and some Gold Star Crotons. How do I trim these, or cut them back? When the leaves fall off, they leave Suction cup looking marks and nothing regrows there.
Thanks,
Les
That’s not a magnificent croton in your picture