alabama croton
Croton alabamensis
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
6 - 8
Flowers:
Greenish-yellow Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green,red,yellow,purple,orange
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Alabama Croton should be watered 2 to 3 times a week during the hot summer months and once a week during the cooler winter months. For best results, allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between each watering. Additionally, during the hot summer months it is beneficial to mist the foliage every few days to help reduce stress to the plant.
sunlight
Alabama Croton thrives in bright sunlight for at least 4 to 6 hours each day. Direct sunlight is best, but indirect light can keep it healthy as well. This species prefers full sun exposure early in the day, but can handle partial shade during the afternoon hours. Avoid extreme temperatures like mid-day sun to prevent leaf burn or wilting. Place the plant in an area with good air circulation to ensure its leaves dry quickly, reducing the chance of rot. When growing Alabama Croton indoors, keep in a bright spot that receives natural sunlight near a south- or west-facing window. If natural sunlight is not available, supplement with fluorescent or halogen plant lights to ensure it is receiving the proper amount of light. Its best to provide Alabama Croton with a minimum of 4 to 6 hours of light each day.
pruning
Alabama croton should be pruned annually, usually in late winter or early spring. Pruning should be done to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches and to help open up and shape the plant to the desired size. The key to healthy Alabama croton is to not remove more than a quarter of the plant's total foliage in a single season. If more extensive pruning is needed, spread it out over multiple seasons.