Croton, also called “garden croton,” are native to the tropical forests of southeast Asia and Oceania. In the wild, they grow as large shrubs, reaching up to 10 feet tall (in the home or garden, they stay a lot smaller).

Croton petra plants are susceptible to the bacterial diseases crown gall and xanthomonas leaf spot, and the fungal diseases anthracnose and stem gall and canker. Both crown gall and stem gall and canker present with swelling on the plant's stems, leaf veins and roots and require the pruning of all infected parts in order to be controlled. Xanthomonas leaf spot is identified through the dark brown and black lesions that appear on the leaves. A copper containing bactericide can be used preventatively, but once the plant is infected, it will need to be eliminated. If your plant has anthracnose, you'll notice water spots that turn tan and sometimes have black dots in the center.

Note: All parts of this plant are poisonous—especially the seeds—so it is not recommended for use in homes with curious pets or children. When damaged, croton produce a milky sap that can be irritating to the skin, too.