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Codiaeum variegatum Mrs Iceton is one of the most striking croton cultivars, celebrated for its vibrant and ever-changing foliage. Native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and other parts of Southeast Asia, crotons belong to the Euphorbiaceae family and are admired worldwide as colourful ornamental houseplants.
What makes Mrs Iceton special is the extraordinary colour variation across its leaves. Each large, glossy, and elongated leaf can display a palette of yellow, pink, red, orange, and green, often all at once. New growth tends to emerge in bright shades of yellow and light green, maturing into warmer tones of pink, bronze, and crimson. This constant transformation gives the plant a dynamic, living quality no two leaves are ever alike.
Its upright, bushy habit makes it perfect as a statement plant in bright interiors, where its tropical colours bring warmth and vibrancy year-round. In its natural habitat, Codiaeum variegatum can grow into a large shrub, but indoors, Mrs Iceton is easily maintained at 60120 cm, making it an excellent choice for adding colour and texture to conservatories, offices, and living rooms.
Requires bright, indirect light to maintain its bold variegation. A spot near an east- or south-facing window is ideal. Too little light will cause colours to fade, while direct, harsh sun can scorch the foliage. Rotate regularly to ensure even colouring on all sides.
Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top 23 cm of soil feels dry. In summer, this may mean watering once or twice a week; in winter, reduce the frequency but do not allow the plant to dry out completely. Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Temperature: Thrives in 1826C. It dislikes cold draughts and should not be exposed to temperatures below 15C.
Humidity: High humidity is essential for maintaining vibrant foliage and preventing leaf drop. Mist regularly, group with other tropical plants, or use a humidifier for best results.
Plant in a rich, free-draining potting mix. A blend of peat-free compost, perlite, and a little orchid bark works well. Repot every 12 years in spring, moving to a slightly larger pot if roots are crowded.
Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2 weeks in spring and summer to encourage lush growth and strong colouration. Reduce feeding to monthly in autumn and stop in winter.
Prune lightly in spring to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Remove yellow or damaged leaves at the base. Wipe the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to keep them dust-free and glossy.
Indoors, Mrs Iceton usually grows into a medium-sized shrub of 60120 cm tall. With patience and consistent care, it can be shaped into a dense, colourful focal point.
Leaf drop: Often caused by low humidity, cold draughts, or sudden changes in environment.
Faded colours: Typically due to insufficient light.
Pests: Can attract spider mites, mealybugs, or scale insects; inspect regularly and treat infestations promptly.
Crotons have long been prized in tropical landscaping for their vivid foliage, and Mrs Iceton is one of the most decorative varieties. Its constantly shifting colours bring an ever-changing display into the home, embodying tropical vibrancy and life. Though not an air purifier on the scale of some other houseplants, its greatest benefit lies in its ornamental value transforming any space with a burst of colour.
Quick Care Summary
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Keep soil evenly moist
Temperature: 1826C; avoid below 15C
Humidity: High; mist regularly
Soil: Rich, free-draining mix
Feed: Fortnightly in spring/summer
Growth: Upright, bushy; multicoloured foliage