Petra Croton
Codiaeum variegatum 'Petra'
Also known as: Croton Petra · Rainbow Croton
Classic Croton foliage in broad multicolored leaves — a SWFL tropical staple.
Southwest Florida
Growing Petra Croton in SWFL
Petra Croton is the most widely grown Croton variety in Florida, with broad, bold leaves that transition from deep green to yellow, orange, and red as they mature. Its reliable performance in SWFL's heat and humidity has made it a nursery staple for mass plantings, accent specimens, and bed anchors. Requires full sun for the vivid color it's known for.
Plant Specifications
| Sun Exposure | Full sun — minimum 6 hours for vivid color |
|---|---|
| Water Needs | Moderate |
| Salt Tolerance | Low-moderate — protected locations |
| Cold Hardiness | Zone 10a — protect below 40°F |
| Mature Height | 3–6ft |
| Mature Spread | 2–4ft |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
Nursery stock photo
Live Inventory
Available Sizes
Frequently Asked Questions
Both are Codiaeum variegatum cultivars with similar care requirements. Petra has broader, more rounded leaves with yellow-green-orange-red color patterns. Mammey has narrower, more elongated leaves with deeper red tones and a more dramatic appearance. Petra is the more widely available and typically lower-cost of the two.
Yes — Petra Croton can be maintained as a colorful informal hedge at 3–5 feet. It responds well to light shearing and produces dense growth when trimmed regularly. For a formal hedge, choose a species with a more uniform growth pattern like Clusia or Podocarpus.
Petra Croton is in stock.
Call to confirm sizing and current availability.