Codiaeum ‘Mrs Iceton’

Codiaeum ‘Mrs Iceton’, commonly known as a Croton, is a spectacular large foliage plant with glossy leaves that develop an extraordinary mixture of green, cream, yellow, pink and deep red. Rather than displaying one fixed pattern, the foliage changes colour as it matures, giving established plants a wonderfully layered, multi-coloured appearance.

Supplied in a substantial 24cm diameter nursery pot at approximately 110cm tall, ‘Mrs Iceton’ is an impressive floor-standing houseplant with an upright, architectural shape. It is a brilliant choice for adding both height and intense colour to a bright living room, hallway, kitchen or workspace.

Please note: Due to its size, this plant is only available for local hand delivery in Edinburgh or collection from our Edinburgh shop. It cannot be sent by standard UK courier.

What Makes ‘Mrs Iceton’ Special?

‘Mrs Iceton’ is particularly distinctive because its foliage changes dramatically as the leaves mature. Newer growth can emerge fresh lime green or yellow-green before gradually developing shades of cream, pink, red and deeper green.

The result is a plant displaying several different colours at once, with each leaf contributing to an almost painterly effect. The large, leathery leaves and strong upright growth make an established specimen especially impressive.

Light & Position

Croton ‘Mrs Iceton’ needs plenty of bright, filtered light to maintain its strongest foliage colour. Place it close to a bright window, ideally with good indirect light throughout the day.

Some gentle morning or evening sunshine can be beneficial, but protect the plant from prolonged intense summer sun through glass, which may scorch the foliage.

Very low light should be avoided. Although the plant may survive, growth can become weaker and the striking foliage colours may become less pronounced.

Watering

Keep the compost lightly and consistently moist during active growth, allowing the surface to begin drying before watering again.

Water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain freely from the nursery pot. Avoid allowing the plant to stand in water, as continually saturated compost can lead to root problems.

Crotons can react to being allowed to become excessively dry by dropping leaves, so aim for reasonably consistent watering rather than allowing the entire root ball to dry out.

Reduce watering during winter when growth naturally slows.

Humidity & Temperature

‘Mrs Iceton’ is a genuinely tropical plant and performs best in a warm room with moderate to high humidity. Keep it away from cold windows, exterior doors, draughts and direct heat from radiators.

Temperatures of around 18–25°C are ideal for most homes. Avoid prolonged temperatures below approximately 15°C, as Crotons can respond badly to cold conditions.

Dry air can also contribute to leaf drop and brown edges, so a bright bathroom, kitchen or naturally humid room can work particularly well.

Feeding

Feed approximately once a month during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser, following the recommended dilution on the packaging.

Reduce or stop feeding during autumn and winter when the plant is growing more slowly.

Looking After the Foliage

The large glossy leaves can collect dust over time. Gently wiping them with a soft damp cloth will keep the plant looking its best and allow the foliage to receive as much light as possible.

Avoid commercial leaf-shine products, which are unnecessary and can leave residues on the foliage.

Leaf Drop

Crotons can be sensitive to sudden environmental changes and may occasionally drop leaves after being moved, particularly if they experience cold temperatures, draughts, very dry compost or very dry air.

Keep conditions warm and stable and avoid repeatedly moving the plant once you have found a suitable bright position.

Repotting

Repot when the roots have substantially filled the existing nursery pot, moving up gradually rather than placing the plant immediately into a much larger container.

Use a light, free-draining compost. Crotons prefer slightly acidic growing conditions and can benefit from rainwater or filtered water in areas with particularly hard tap water.

Why You'll Love It

• Impressive large plant at approximately 110cm tall
• Exceptional multi-coloured foliage
• Leaves change colour as they mature
• Beautiful shades of green, yellow, cream, pink and red
• Strong upright, architectural shape
• Adds colour without relying on flowers
• A striking floor plant for a bright indoor space
• Each specimen develops its own unique combination of colours

Pet & Child Safety

Crotons are harmful if eaten and should be kept away from pets and young children. The milky sap can also irritate the skin and eyes, so wear gloves when pruning or handling damaged stems and wash away any sap that comes into contact with the skin.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum var. pictum ‘Mrs Iceton’
Common Name: Croton / Garden Croton
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Nursery Pot Size: 24cm diameter
Approximate Height: Around 110cm
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 28cm+
Foliage Colour: Green / yellow / cream / pink / red
Growth Habit: Upright / bushy / architectural
Position: Bright, filtered light
Delivery: Local Edinburgh hand delivery or store collection only

Please note: As this is a living plant, the exact height, shape, number of stems and balance of foliage colours will naturally vary. Younger leaves may be considerably greener than mature foliage and will develop additional colour as they age. Occasional minor marks can occur naturally on large leaves. Decorative pots shown in photos are not included. This plant is supplied in a plastic nursery pot.