Codiaeum Variegatum

Fire Croton, Garden Croton, Variegated Croton

Description of Codiaeum Variegatum

Codiaeum variegatum, commonly known as a tropical shrub, is an evergreen and monoecious plant that can reach heights of up to 3 meters (9.8 feet). It features thick, somewhat shiny leaves that have a leathery texture, arranged alternately along the stem. These leaves can vary in size, measuring anywhere from 5 to 30 cm (2.0 to 11.8 in) in length and 0.5 to 8 cm (0.20 to 3.15 in) in width. The mature leaves may take on various shapes such as diamond, teardrop, or even resemble a violin, as well as other forms like lanceolate and elliptical. The plant is celebrated for its striking colors, particularly when exposed to ample sunlight, showcasing bright, almost tie-dye patterns in shades of green, yellow, and purple that differ in hue and intensity based on the variety. The petiole can range from 0.2 to 2.5 cm in length. In line with other euphorbs, the flower clusters are long racemes, measuring between 8 to 30 cm (3.1 to 11.8 in), where male and female flowers are distinct from one another. Male flowers are white, composed of five small petals and feature 20 to 30 stamens. Their pollen is oval-shaped, about 52 by 32 microns in size. In contrast, the female flowers are yellowish and lack petals. The blooming period typically occurs in early autumn, although this can vary by location. The small, inedible, and toxic fruit is a capsule approximately 9 mm (0.35 in) in diameter, containing three seeds, each about 6 mm (0.24 in) across.

Last Modified: November 1, 2024 at 5:55:05 PM