Croton

Codiaeum variegatum

Zones: 11a to 12b

Bold Variegated Foliage
Sap Stains Fabric

Pet & Human Safety

People: Toxic to people (low severity)Pets: Not on the ASPCA lists as we read them

Hazardous parts

bark

Preparation

Not applicable. Not a food plant

Hazard type

Diterpene esters

Hazard route

ingestion and skin contact

How complete this information is

The safety information on this page is partial. Where a source covers a point, it is shown; where none does, the page says so.

Toxic to pets

No ASPCA entry found.

NC State rates croton Low for people: "Toxic only if large quantities eaten. Skin irritation minor or lasting only for a few minutes." The milky sap can irritate skin and permanently stains fabric. NC State lists no pet tags, and no pet verdict is given until an ASPCA page for Codiaeum variegatum can be read.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: USDA zones 11a to 12b
Mature size: 2-8 feet tall, 2-6 feet wide (NC State Extension).
Family: Euphorbiaceae (spurge family)
Where it comes from: Malaysia, Pacific islands, and northern Australia (NC State Extension).

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

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