🌿 Croton Petra (Codiaeum variegatum ‘Petra’)

Croton Petra is a tropical showstopper with bold, variegated leaves streaked in red, yellow, orange, green, and purple. Its oval-shaped foliage glows with colorful veins that bring a dramatic, exotic touch indoors or out. With proper light and care, Petra stays evergreen year-round, making it a favorite for tropical landscapes, patios, or as a statement houseplant.

🌸 Flowers & Foliage

• Foliage: Oval leaves with bright red, yellow, orange, green, and purple veins

• Flowers: Small, inconspicuous blooms on mature plants in warm climates

• Habit: Upright, bushy growth with large, colorful leaves

🌱 Plant Details

• Type: Evergreen perennial shrub / tropical houseplant

• Mature Size: 7–10 ft. tall × 4–6 ft. wide outdoors; 3–5 ft. tall indoors in containers

• Growth Habit: Upright, full, shrub-like; can resemble a small tree in warm climates

• Exposure: Full sun to bright indirect light; at least 4–6 hrs daily for best color

• Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic, fertile potting mix

• Water Needs: Keep soil evenly moist; allow top 1 in. to dry before watering

• Hardiness: USDA Zones 9–11; container plant in cooler regions

• Maintenance: Moderate; prune annually to remove dead leaves and shape

🌟 Why We Love It

• Explosion of color — vibrant foliage adds tropical energy year-round

• Versatile — thrives indoors as a houseplant or outdoors in warm zones

• Evergreen foliage — maintains bold colors all year with proper light

• Statement plant — perfect for entryways, patios, or mixed tropical beds

🌼 Landscape & Indoor Uses

• Tropical gardens and mixed borders

• Patio or porch containers (bring indoors in cool weather)

• Indoor statement plant in bright rooms

• Foundation or entryway focal point

⚠️ Plant Notes

• Toxic to pets and humans if ingested; sticky sap may cause skin irritation.

• Susceptible to leaf drop if exposed to cold drafts or insufficient light.

• Avoid overwatering — soggy soil can cause root rot.

✅ Level To Leaf Tip: Place Petra in the sunniest spot you can — bright, direct light is the secret to keeping those brilliant red and yellow veins glowing year-round.