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Description
Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum Excellent, also known as the croton plant, is a tropical evergreen shrub that is native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and other parts of Southeast Asia. The plant is known for its colorful leaves and is a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Euphorbiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Codiaeum |
Appearance
The Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum Excellent plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Its leaves are thick, leathery, and glossy, and come in a variety of colors, including yellow, green, red, orange, and purple. The leaves are typically oval-shaped and can be up to 12 inches long. The plant also produces small, insignificant flowers that are typically green or yellow in color.
Care Guide
The Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum Excellent plant requires specific care to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant needs to be watered regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this can cause root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum Excellent plant needs bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum Excellent plant is prone to pests and diseases. Here are some common issues:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause the leaves to become discolored and covered in webs.
- Mealybugs: These pests can cause the leaves to become sticky and covered in a white, powdery substance.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can lead to wilting and leaf drop.
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease can cause brown spots to appear on the leaves.
Habitat
The Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum Excellent plant is native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and other parts of Southeast Asia. It prefers tropical climates with warm temperatures and high humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum Excellent plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should the Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum Excellent plant be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is the Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum Excellent plant toxic?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic if ingested and can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Q: Can the Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum Excellent plant be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through stem cuttings.
Related Plants
- Codiaeum variegatum ‘Mammy’
- Codiaeum variegatum ‘Mrs. Iceton’
- Codiaeum variegatum ‘Petra’
References
- “Croton Plant Care: How to Grow and Care for Croton Plants.” Gardening Know How, 29 May 2020, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/croton-plants/croton-plant-care.htm.
- “Codiaeum variegatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282262.
- “Codiaeum variegatum.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp001.
