The garden croton, scientifically known as Codiaeum variegatum, is a popular ornamental plant, highly valued for its spectacular and colourful foliage. Native to the tropical forests of Malaysia, Indonesia, and India, this plant is distinguished by its glossy leaves with varied patterns and vibrant shades ranging from green to red, yellow, orange, pink, and sometimes even purple. Each leaf is a true work of art, often veined and marbled with contrasting colours.
At the Au Bois Vert botanical garden near Ivato in Antananarivo, this plant holds a special place due to its ability to bring an exotic and dynamic touch to landscaped areas. Its dense foliage and bushy form help create visually striking spaces while providing a beautiful transition between other tropical plants in the garden.
Codiaeum variegatum, or croton, thrives in warm, humid climates reminiscent of its natural habitat. It flourishes in well-drained soil and requires plenty of light to fully reveal its rich colours. Under optimal conditions, it can grow up to two metres tall, though it tends to remain more compact when cultivated in pots. It is an excellent choice for decorating spaces around restaurants, lodges, or even hotels such as the one at Au Bois Vert.
Although it rarely flowers when grown indoors, the garden croton captivates above all with its foliage, true botanical gems. Its care requires regular yet moderate watering, along with close attention to temperature, which should not drop below 15°C.
Plant use
Beyond its decorative appeal, the croton plays a vital role in landscaping tropical gardens, such as in the botanical garden at Ivato. Its vibrant foliage makes it an excellent accent plant, ideal for creating contrasts with more understated greenery. When placed near a restaurant or reception area in a lodge, it immediately captures the attention of visitors, enhancing their visual experience. The croton can be used to structure flowerbeds or as a low hedge, providing a natural and aesthetically pleasing boundary. It is also well-suited to terraces and patios, where it fits seamlessly into planters or pots. In hospitality settings, such as at Au Bois Vert, this plant contributes to creating a warm and tropical atmosphere, adding to the unique character of the venue. In addition to its ornamental use, the croton is sometimes cultivated as a medicinal plant in certain parts of Asia. Its leaves are used in traditional medicine for their antiseptic properties. However, it is important to note that its plant parts can be toxic if ingested, which restricts its domestic use to informed adults and keeps it away from pets. Indoors, the croton acts as a natural air purifier, helping to improve indoor air quality. Its specific light requirements make it ideal for bright spaces, such as a conservatory, a living room, or the lobby of a hotel.
Key information
| Common name | Garden croton |
| Scientific name | Codiaeum variegatum |
| Origin | Malaysia, Indonesia, India |
| Natural habitat | Tropical and subtropical forests |
| Life cycle | Perennial plant |
| Flowering period | Rarely indoors, discreet, inconspicuous flowers |
