Codiaeum variegatum - Croton

They're so hardy! Mine always wilt terribly during our long dry season. They only get three or four long deep drinks from the irrigation system during the dry, and they come back beautifully.

I've lost several small plants over the many years to drought. I didn't realize they needed so much water here. I always thought they were super drought tolerant, not here in San Diego, though.

I think while they're young they definitely need frequent watering. When they're fully mature they're quite drought tolerant. I have a few down the driveway that are now around 2 metres tall, and they seem to get through the long nine-month dry periods fairly well, as I said with just a few deep waterings.

Yes, I would guess well established shrubs in the ground would be much more drought tolerant. My plants in the past never got established. I water my crotons in the ground very often, especially in summer.

Love the colouring...........

Milky:

Thanks! All Crotons are known for their very colorful, variegated leaves.