Codiaeum variegatum are part of the Euphorbiaceae family and its native range is E. Jawa to Fiji. 'Petra' is an unpatented cultivar with lanceolate-ovate, lobed leaves with pointed tips. Leaves are leathery and glaborous with brightly coloured variegation; from green to chartreuse, yellow, burgundy, orange and red. The inflorescence is star-shaped, male flowers are white and female flowers are yellow.
Genus name possibly comes from the Greek word ‘kodeia' or 'kodia', meaning head, head of plants, bulb, or capsule. Specific epithet means variegated.
You may see this plant labelled as Croton 'Petra'.
Pot: ø 12cm.
Height: Approximately 30cm from base of pot.
Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive.
Water: Allow the first 2-3 inches of mix to dry out. Before watering, ensure the substrate isn’t compacted, if it is, aerate it with a few pokes of a skewer or blunt stick, pour water slowly over the top and allow the water to pass through the drainage holes.
Potting mix: A well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite, orchid bark and worm castings.
Fertilising: Feed your plant every other watering during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: 20-25˚C. No lower than 15˚C.
Humidity: 60% and over is ideal. Increasing humidity can be achieved by grouping plants together, using a humidifier or placing your plant on a tray of watered pebbles.
Codiaeum variegatum is toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.