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

Excellent Croton — South Florida Plant Guide

Codiaeum variegatum 'Excellent'

Family: Euphorbiaceae · Shrub

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

Landscape Uses

accenthedgefoundation plantingmass planting

Style Tags

tropicalresortcolorfulbright

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial Sun

Water Requirements

Low3/10

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

Moderate water. 2x per week in dry season. Good drainage required.

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestoneloam

Fertilizer: Balanced 8-2-12 slow-release.

Schedule: February, May, September slow-release with micronutrients.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (4/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
36 ft
Mature Width
25 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 Excellent Croton at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Excellent Croton grow in South Florida?

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

Is Excellent Croton safe for pets?

Excellent Croton is not safe for pets. Keep pets away from this plant.

How much water does Excellent Croton need in South Florida?

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

Can Excellent Croton tolerate salt air in South Florida?

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

Is Excellent Croton available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Excellent 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.

View County Guide →

Broward County

Allowed

Allowed..

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

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed..

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

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed..

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

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed..

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

View County Guide →

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

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Ask about Excellent Croton

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