Croton
(Codiaeum variegatum (L.) Rumph. ex A.Juss.)
Croton
(Codiaeum variegatum (L.) Rumph. ex A.Juss.)
The Croton is a plant native to Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia, and the western part of the Pacific Ocean archipelago. This plant is often cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its leaves with attractive patterns and colors. Traditionally, the plant has been used as a traditional medicine. However, its seeds contain toxins that are dangerous to humans.
It grows well in open areas in the lowlands and highlands up to an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.). It prefers full sunlight but is tolerant of shade. The ideal average temperature is 18–20 °C with moderate humidity of 30–60%. It is suited to moist soil conditions.
Stem (Batang) Highly branched, woody, with thin, greenish bark when young and brownish when old, and a rough surface.
Leaves (Daun) Simple (single), alternate arrangement, variable in shape (lanceolate, round, ovate, curly), shiny and smooth surface, variable in color (white, yellowish, green, red, or a mixture), variable in pattern (colored spots or colored stripes).
Flower (Bunga) Star-shaped. Male flowers are white, with 5 petals (sepals), and 20–30 stamens. Female flowers are yellow, with ovate-triangular sepals.
Fruit (Buah) Capsule shaped, slightly flattened, brown.
Seed (Biji) Oval, smooth surface.
Propagation is done by seeds and stem cuttings.
Stem Cuttings: Select an old (brown) stem, cut it, and then plant it.
Antiamoebic, antibacterial, anticancer, antifungal, antioxidant, facilitates menstruation (emmenagogue), laxative, treats syphilis and is a sedative, treats stomach ulcers (gastric ulcers), remedy for eczema, treats stomach pain, and toothache.
Alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, saponins, tannins, cardinolides, steroids, phyllates, flavonoids (apigenin, vitexin, isovitexin, and vicenin-2), phlobatannins, phenols, anthraquinones, and epicatechin.
Socfindo Conservation. 2023. Puring Api. https://www.socfindoconservation.co.id/plant/617 (14-05-2023)