At a glance
- Light
- Bright light, some sun
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days (summer)
Every 11 to 17 days (winter) - Climate
- 18–29 °C
- Humidity
- 60–80 %
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
- Scientific name
- Codiaeum variegatum
When and how much water
Water croton when the top 3 cm of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days. Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Croton needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Feeding
Feed croton every 30 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Croton is comfortable between 18 and 29 °C. Below 15 °C the leaves start taking damage, so keep it clear of cold drafts and unheated rooms.
It does best at 60–80% humidity. Misting every 7 days helps in dry rooms.
Common problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a Croton?
Water your croton (Codiaeum variegatum) when the top 3 cm of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
How much light does a Croton need?
Croton needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Is Croton safe for cats and dogs?
The plant contains diterpene esters. Chewing it can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting. Keep croton out of reach of pets, or pick a non-toxic alternative like rosemary, pink jasmine, Camellia, or Dendrobium orchid.
Why are my Croton’s leaves turning yellow or drooping?
On a croton, yellowing and soft growth usually mean overwatering: watch for yellowing leaves, soft stems, or root rot. Let the soil dry further between waterings and check drainage. If you see crispy leaf edges, drooping leaves, or fading colors instead, it’s likely thirsty. Water a little more often. With Botanicaly Pro, Botanicaly Bot can help assess visible signs from a photo and suggest possible causes.
Sources3 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · classification
- University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of ExtensionLight · moisture · humidity · temperature · feeding · repotting · pests · sap irritation
- Pet Poison HelplineScientific name · alternate names · oral/GI irritation · sap skin irritation
Last reviewed: 2026-09-21
