Croton 'Mammy'

$10.75

Description
Croton 'Mammy' Care Guide
FAQ/Common Issues

Croton 'Mammy' (Codiaeum variegatum) is a tropical evergreen shrub native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, where it grows in warm, humid forest edges and open clearings. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and has been cultivated as a houseplant and garden specimen for decades, with certain heirloom selections passing through collections for generations.

'Mammy' carries broad, heavily twisted and curled leaves that coil along their length, distinguishing it from flat-leafed croton varieties. The foliage runs through deep forest green, yellow, orange, red, and near-black on a single plant, with colors shifting depending on light exposure. It grows in an upright, bushy form and is frequently displayed in floor baskets or as a standalone specimen where its leaf structure is fully visible.

'Mammy' can produce small, star-shaped flowers on slender upright spikes, though indoor plants rarely bloom. It purifies indoor air and has been shown to filter formaldehyde and other airborne toxins from the surrounding environment. When it needs water, the leaves wilt slightly and may begin to droop at the tips.

Rotate 'Mammy' every week or two so all sides receive even light, as growth leans noticeably toward the light source without rotation. It is sensitive to being moved and may drop leaves when relocated, so choose a spot and keep it there. Move it outside for summer in a sheltered spot, and cover it or bring it in during rain, as heavy water on the roots can cause problems. The sap causes skin and paw irritation on contact, cats and dogs shouldn't be left to nibble or eat the plant, and it is best placed away from small children and on a high shelf out of reach.
Croton 'Mammy' grows well in bright indirect light and tolerates medium light, but colors deepen with more brightness.

Water it thoroughly every 7-10 days, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.

'Mammy' does best in a well-draining, peat-based mix amended with perlite for added aeration.

It prefers temperatures between 60°F and 85°F and suffers when exposed to cold drafts from air conditioning or heaters.

'Mammy' grows at a moderate pace and benefits from a balanced liquid fertilizer applied monthly during spring and summer.

It is hardy in USDA zones 11-12, where frost does not occur and temperatures stay above 40°F year-round. It grows outdoors in Hawaii and southernmost Florida without winter protection. It thrives outdoors year-round in those regions and can summer outside across most of the continental United States when temperatures remain above 60°F.
Q: How much light does Croton 'Mammy' need indoors?
A: Place it within 3-5 feet of an east or west-facing window. A south-facing window can scorch the leaves if there is no sheer curtain diffusing the direct rays.

Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Croton 'Mammy' most commonly yellows from inconsistent watering, low humidity, or a sudden change in location. Cold air from a vent or window is another frequent cause.

Q: Is 'Mammy' safe around pets?
A: Cats and dogs shouldn't be left to nibble or eat it, and the sap can irritate their paws or mouth on contact. Keep it on a high shelf or in a room pets cannot access.

Q: How do I propagate this plant?
A: 'Mammy' is propagated by stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting just below a node, let the cut end dry for an hour to reduce sap flow, then place it in moist soil or water until roots develop.

Q: Does 'Mammy' need high humidity?
A: Yes, it does best with humidity above 50%. It thrives near kitchen moisture naturally, and a pebble tray with water or regular misting helps in drier indoor environments.

Q: What pot or display style works best for this plant?
A: 'Mammy' suits a floor basket, a decorative pot, or a raised shelf where the twisted, colorful leaves are at eye level. It fits a bohemian or heirloom-style interior equally well as a more structured space.

Shipping
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When your package arrives, you may notice a bit of loose soil in the box. This is completely normal during shipping.
Please remove your plants from their packaging as soon as possible and review the care instructions included with your order. Water based on your plant’s needs, making sure not to overwater.
Houseplants may need a short adjustment period after arrival. Give your plant time to acclimate to its new space before placing it with other plants. You can gently clean the leaves if needed, and wait to fertilize until it has settled in. Always check soil moisture instead of watering on a fixed schedule.
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