FloridaLandscapeIQ
Banana Croton (Codiaeum variegatum 'Banana') growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Banana Croton — South Florida Plant Guide

Codiaeum variegatum 'Banana'

Family: Euphorbiaceae · Shrub

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

accentfoundation plantinghedgemass plantingtropical composition

Style Tags

tropicalresortcolorful

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial Sun

Water Requirements

Low3/10

Once established (12–18 months), Banana Croton is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Moderate water once established. Water 2x per week in dry season. Excellent drainage essential.

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestoneloam

Fertilizer: Balanced 8-2-12 slow-release. Iron supplement in alkaline Miami-Dade soils.

Schedule: February, May, September with balanced slow-release. Micronutrients in limestone soils for best color.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (4/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
36 ft
Mature Width
24 ft
Growth Rate
moderate
Water Demand
3/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$$
USDA Zones
10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
5/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Banana Croton at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Banana Croton grow in South Florida?

Banana Croton has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Banana Croton safe for pets?

Banana Croton is not safe for pets. Euphorbiaceae — milky sap irritant; leaves mildly toxic if ingested in quantity.

How much water does Banana Croton need in South Florida?

Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), Banana Croton is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Banana Croton tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Banana Croton has moderate salt tolerance (4/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is Banana Croton available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Banana Croton is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed. Non-restricted.

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed. Used in Broward HOA and residential tropical gardens.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Cold sensitivity limits exposed northern Palm Beach County sites.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. Used in Naples area landscapes.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Low salt tolerance — protected sites only.

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

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Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

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Ask about Banana Croton

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.