🌿 Mammy Croton (Codiaeum variegatum ‘Mammy’)

If you’re looking for bold color and tropical flair, the Mammy Croton delivers. Known for its corkscrewing leaves in shades of red, yellow, orange, and green, this vibrant evergreen adds instant drama indoors or out. Its shiny, leathery foliage twists as it grows, making every plant a one-of-a-kind display.

🌸 Flowers & Foliage

• Foliage: Large, thick leaves that curl and twist in brilliant shades of yellow, red, pink, orange, green, and purple

• Flowers: Small, star-like blooms in yellow and white (inconspicuous compared to foliage)

• Habit: Upright and bushy with a slow growth rate

🌱 Plant Details

• Type: Tropical evergreen shrub / houseplant

• Mature Size: 3–8 ft. tall × 3–4 ft. wide

• Growth Habit: Upright, compact, colorful foliage display

• Exposure: Bright indirect to direct light; south or west windows are ideal

• Soil: Well-draining, humus-rich soil

• Water Needs: Above average; keep soil consistently moist but not soggy

• Hardiness: Best in USDA Zones 10–11 outdoors; grow indoors elsewhere

• Maintenance: Moderate; prune to shape, watch for pests (mealybugs, mites, scale)

🌟 Why We Love It

• Unmatched color — foliage mixes reds, yellows, oranges, and greens all in one plant

• Unique form — twisting, corkscrew leaves add movement and texture

• Tropical vibe — instantly creates a lush, exotic look indoors or outdoors

• Air-purifying qualities — helps clean indoor air

🌼 Landscape & Indoor Uses

• Accent plant in tropical gardens

• Indoor container plant for bright rooms

• Patio or porch container (bring indoors in winter)

• Grouped with other tropicals for bold contrast

⚠️ Plant Notes

• Toxic to pets and humans if ingested (seeds are especially dangerous).

• Requires consistent humidity (40–80%) to look its best.

• Susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale — treat with neem oil if needed.

✅ Level To Leaf Tip: For the brightest leaf colors, give Mammy Croton several hours of direct sunlight daily — but protect from harsh afternoon rays to prevent leaf scorch.