What am I doing wrong? I've only had this for about a month and water when soil feels dry. Maybe every 2 weeks or so..? Thanks!

Is this a croton?

Where do you live? Its never helpful when members do not list a geographical origin or at least a climate zone

It does look like a variety of Croton (Codiaeum variegatum) The photo is quite dark and it's difficult to see what's actually going on with it but lack of sufficient light and too much water may be the issue.

Yes it is Petra croton. I live in Buffalo,NY. Plant has been kept indoors.

Petra is the most common croton on the planet. Which is good, and bad, croton needs full sun, humidity and a lot of water, Its an outdoor plant, not an indoor plant

Here's our database entry for Croton (Codiaeum variegatum 'Petra')

Croton's (Codiaeum) are indeed common landscape plants here in Florida. I've grown many Croton's in containers over the years and still have at least one in a pot but they remain outside all year round where they get many hours of high sunlight and good air circulation.


Even though conditions indoors are not conducive to the health and longevity of a Croton, they are often sold as houseplants. I guess if one can offer the ideal situation of warmth, high sunlight and air circulation, they could survive. Hopefully someone who does successfully grow these indoors will be able to offer suggestions but I really think the issue with your little Croton is lack of sufficient light and possibly too much water. You can try placing it outdoors in full sun for a few hours each day (the longer the better) during the warm months of the year; just be sure to move it to that location gradually so as not to cause excessive, sudden stress.

Would a grow light work as natural sunlight?

What state do you live in? I have crotons in my yard, they usually do ok in winter if we don;t get a hard freeze that lasts for like 10 hours. If we do they defoliate but relief in spring.

She lives in Buffalo, NY, no way that croton could live outdoors except for June through August. Buffalo has some fabulous gardens but they are not tropical.

They need bright light, a grow light would help and perhaps sit the pot on a tray of pebbles with water in the bottom of the tray for humidity. You need to try and emmulate a semi tropical environment.

You could also try a terrarium

@blackmamba Your Croton would benefit with a grow light, or a sunny window, and like the others have said, they're tropical and love humidity. Once you are past frost, you can place it outside in a part sun location, they can take a good amount of sun, and yes they like water.

Thank you everyone:) I will see how it does over the next few months. I am looking forward to the sunshine myself!

Just take it easy at first so your plant does not get sunburn.

I think that already happened lol I had it near/ partially under my click n grow garden light (not sure if it's the correct light)? and I noticed the leaves closest to the light were starting to get weird so I moved it further away.

Whenever there is an increase in exposure, it should be gradual to avoid burning. I don't know that product but someone should.