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Gold Dust Croton (Codiaeum variegatum 'Gold Dust') growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Gold Dust Croton — South Florida Plant Guide

Codiaeum variegatum 'Gold Dust'

Family: Euphorbiaceae · Shrub

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

Landscape Uses

accenthedgefoundation plantingmass plantingspecimen

Style Tags

tropicalresortcolorfultextural

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial Sun

Water Requirements

Low3/10

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

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

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestoneloam

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

Schedule: February, May, September slow-release. Iron/manganese in limestone soils.

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 Gold Dust Croton at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Gold Dust Croton grow in South Florida?

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

Is Gold Dust Croton safe for pets?

Gold Dust Croton is not safe for pets. Euphorbiaceae — mildly toxic. Low landscape risk.

How much water does Gold Dust Croton need in South Florida?

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

Can Gold Dust Croton tolerate salt air in South Florida?

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

Is Gold Dust Croton available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Gold Dust 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. Non-restricted.

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 sites.

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. Protected sites.

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 Gold Dust Croton

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