Picasso’s paintbrush croton also known as Coadiumvariegatum belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. Like other Croton species, “Picasso’s Paintbrush” is native to warm tropical areas of the western Pacific Oceans such as Australia, Malaysia and Indonesia. ‘Croton’ which means tick in Greek is a perennial plant that can grow from small shrubs to a tree-like sculptural form in the right environment with proper humidity and light. Picasso’s paintbrush is slow-growing croton with yellow, red, orange pigmented fine narrow leaves and stripes in the center. Ample amount of water with suitable humidity, proper light are few factors one should be taken care of for Picasso’s paintbrush croton care. These plants can be planted in pots and kept indoors, but there are few steps one should follow in order to keep them happy and healthy.

The most important of these factors is light. In order to attain full vibrant colour, the plants should be kept in full sunlight. If these plants are kept indoors, they should be given the brightest spot of home. Absence of proper amount of light may cause discoloration or poor development of leaves.

The second important factor that comes after the light is a suitable temperature. Picasso’s Paintbrush croton plants are cold sensitive. They should be kept at temperatures between 60-80℉. Although they can withstand temperatures lower than 40 degrees for a shorter period of time, they should be kept away from windows, doors, cold rooms and drafty windows.In winter they should be kept as indoors plants at a place with plenty of sunlight, high humidity.

The third factor for taking care of Picasso’s Paintbrushplants is the ample amount of water. Once watered, one has to wait until the soil dries. Studies show that these plants can be kept underwatered rather than overwatering them. Excess watering results in falling off leaves. In winter they require slightly less water and  should be watered once the soil is dried to a depth of 1 inch.

Next comes humidity which is also an important factor. Croton loves moisture in the air – the wetter the environment the happier the plant. To keep the environment moisturized one can keep pebbles on the top of the pot, or use a humidifier. Misting their leaves can act as temporary help. Moreover, the goal is to keep a 60% humidity level in the surrounding environment.

The use of fertilizer is another important factor. Liquid fertilizer that is diluted to half strength can be applied once a month to keep Croton plants healthy. Croton plants don’t like to be moved. They can drop leaves upon arrival. With proper care, this problem can be solved.

Picasso’s paintbrush with all its delicate feather-like foliage should be kept clean. A clean plant is always a happy and healthy plant. The pots should be cleaned from time to time. With the rising temperature, the risk of spider mites also increases. The plant should be the dusted and unwanted pests can be removed by spraying water or by using a wet sponge. However, the plant will grow and thrive they are provided with proper care and attention.

Leave a Reply