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Description
Croton Cascarilloides, also known as the Cascara Croton, is a small evergreen shrub that is native to the dry regions of southwestern United States and Mexico. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Croton |
Appearance
The Croton Cascarilloides plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are about 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are glossy and have a dark green color with a red midrib. The plant also produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-yellow in color.
Care Guide
Water: The Croton Cascarilloides plant requires moderate watering. It should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The Croton Cascarilloides plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Croton Cascarilloides plant is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It may also be affected by root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
The Croton Cascarilloides plant is native to the dry regions of southwestern United States and Mexico. It grows in rocky or sandy soils in desert regions and canyons.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Croton Cascarilloides plant poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic if ingested. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms in humans and pets.
Q: How often should I prune my Croton Cascarilloides plant?
A: The plant can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. It is best to prune in the spring after the plant has finished flowering.
Q: Can the Croton Cascarilloides plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a sunny location and is watered appropriately.
Q: How can I propagate my Croton Cascarilloides plant?
A: The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until roots develop.
Related Plants
- Croton
- Croton Petra
- Croton Mammy
- Croton Plant
References
- “Croton Cascarilloides.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 29 Mar. 2021.
- “Croton Cascarilloides.” The Morton Arboretum. Morton Arboretum, n.d. Web. 29 Mar. 2021.
- Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Portland, OR: Timber, 2011. Print.
