The Croton 'Petra' (Codiaeum variegatum 'Petra'), widely sold as Joseph's Coat, is one of the most colourful houseplants you can grow, its bold leathery leaves splashed with red, orange, yellow and green.

It has an upright, bushy habit and keeps its striking variegation all year round as an evergreen. The leaf colour is strongest in bright light, so a spot close to a south or west facing window suits it best, and the colours fade back towards plain green if the plant is kept too dim.

It arrives as an established plant in a 12cm pot, ready for a windowsill, desk or bright living room. Keep it out of cold draughts and sudden changes in temperature, and let the top centimetre or so of compost dry out between waterings.

This is not a plant for a dim corner or a chilly hallway: it wants consistent warmth, good humidity and no draughts, and it will drop leaves if it is moved, chilled or allowed to dry out completely. Croton is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed, and the sap can irritate skin, so site it out of reach of curious pets.

Cultural Information

• Common Name: Croton, Joseph's Coat
• Fully Grown Height and Spread: Approx. 60-90cm tall and 30-60cm wide (variety dependent)
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy shrub grown for its foliage
• Perfect For: Windowsills, desks, bright living rooms and home offices
• Foliage: Bold, leathery leaves variegated in red, orange, yellow and green
• Planting Position: Bright light, close to a south or west facing window
• Hardiness: Houseplant only; will not tolerate temperatures below about 10°C or a cold draught
• Maintenance: Needs consistent warmth and humidity; water when the top of the compost dries out and avoid letting it sit cold or dry for long
• Type: Tropical evergreen houseplant