Crotons (Codiaeum) are shrubs which frequently receive a snub in Florida landscaping, with many people going so far as to say, "I HATE Crotons!" which is hardly fair. Despite its indelible staining sap and low mammalian toxicity, in certain situations a well-chosen Croton is an excellent design option. Crotons are particularly appropriate  with various types of stucco and clay, and used carefully, can provide durable low-maintenance texture and color where there's no hope of achieving flowers.

Admittedly they can be ghastly placed next to other large-leaved variegated plants or certain flowering shrubs. The yellow and brown foliage types stuck in with red or double-pink hibiscus and a mixed ground cover of  Rhoeo and Asparagus Fern then edged in oolitic limestone, comprise an unfortunate combination seen in Florida which has understandably caused many people to hold a grudge against all Crotons forever.


Potted Tricolored Croton

Probably the top client request along with "low-maintenance" in residential landscape design is "color."  Crotons fulfill both these objectives. Their successful use simply requires thoughtful decision on which variety to specify and how to coordinate it  with the surrounding landscape.