Croton Petra

Croton Petra Soil

This broadleaf evergreen shrub likes to be grown in a well-draining soil that is able to retain moisture. Gravel added to the bottom of your container will increase overall drainage. Croton Petra likes humus-rich, loamy soil. A quality commercial potting soil with gravel to increase drainage will work well for this plant. 

Croton Petra Fertilizer

Croton Petra may be fertilized either monthly during the warm growing season or seasonally with a granular slow-release fertilizer. However, this plant should not be fertilized in the winter. While not considered a heavy feeder, these Crotons enjoy being fed for a growing boost. If using liquid fertilizer, you should fertilize your plant about every two weeks using liquid fertilizer that is diluted to half-strength. 

Croton Petra Watering

This Croton likes to be watered deeply and to maintain moist soil that is not soggy. You should rewater your Croton after the top 3″ of soil has dried. Watering frequency should be reduced in fall and winter. Too much watering may lead to issues such as root rot. 

Croton Petra Light Requirements

While Croton Petra will tolerate partial sun and only requires four hours of sun exposure daily, more light exposure will allow this plant to display its full-color potential. Not enough sun will lead to a lack of variegation in this plant. However, too much direct sun may cause foliage scorching. Therefore, this plant likes to be kept at a happy medium between full sun and partial shade.

Croton Petra Temperature & Humidity

Being a tropical plant, this Croton likes to remain warm and kept in humid environments. You should keep your Croton between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. You should never expose Croton Petra to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, as this may cause significant damage. 

These plants should also be kept away from drafts, heaters, AC units, and cold windows, as they do not like large fluctuations in temperature. This plant also likes to be grown in an environment with high humidity. Place your Croton in a humid kitchen or bathroom if it has sufficient light, or you should supplement the humidity level in the home by installing a pebble tray, humidifier, or misting. 

Repotting Croton Petra

As this plant is very sensitive, it should only be transplanted when necessary, about every 2-3 years or so. You should repot your Croton in the spring and prepare the roots for transplant by watering deeply 24 hours before repotting. 

Croton Petra Maintenance & Pruning

While the Croton Petra has low pruning requirements, it should be pruned annually in spring to maintain its size. By using sterilized shears, remove any diseased, discolored, or damaged leaves and prune away any unwanted new growth to keep the plant a manageable, uniform size. 

Croton Petra Propagation

Propagation of Croton Petra can be a bit more difficult than propagating other tropical plants, but it can be done. To propagate, take cuttings that are 6” long with some new foliage at the top. Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Place the cutting(s) into an equal mixture of perlite to peat moss or coco coir and water thoroughly. Your cuttings must be kept warm and humid. Many individuals encourage rooting by placing a bag over the top of the plant to trap in humidity. New roots should appear within two months. 

Croton Petra Toxicity

Croton Petra is toxic to humans and pets. You should wash hands after handling this plant and never ingest this plant.

Toxicity to Humans

Croton Petra is considered toxic to humans and should never be ingested. Consumption may lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Contact with the sap of this Croton may cause contact dermatitis as well. 

Toxicity to Cats & Dogs

This plant is considered toxic to pets and should not be consumed. If you believe your pet has consumed any portion of this plant, you should contact your veterinarian or pet poison control immediately. 

Croton Petra Problems

Croton Petra Leaves Turning Yellow

When leaves of your Croton Petra turn yellow, it is most commonly caused by a buildup of salts in the soil. This is due to either too much fertilizer or from tap water. If this occurs and it is not the result of incorrect lightening, too much water, or other environmental stresses, you should flush your plant. 

Croton Petra Leaves Turning Brown

The most common cause of browning of the foliage of this plant is due to lack of humidity or insufficient water.

Croton Petra Diseases

This plant is considered hardy and is not regularly affected by plant disease. However, this plant may develop bacterial or fungal issues, such as root rot, when improperly cared for. 

Croton Petra Pests

This plant is considered hardy, and it is not typically susceptible to any pests. However, it may become infested by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects, especially if this plant is being improperly cared for. 

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