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Jamaican Croton
Binomial name
Graptophyllum pictum
Common names
Caricature Plant, Cucumber Tree, Painted Leaf Plant
Description
Graptophyllum pictum, also known as the Caricature Plant, is a striking shrub that adds a pop of color and intrigue to the garden with its bold, painted leaves. The leaves feature a unique pattern of green, white, and purple hues, with striking, almost abstract designs that make this plant stand out in any landscape. In addition to its colorful foliage, it produces small, tubular flowers that are typically yellow or orange, adding even more visual interest. A tropical plant native to Southeast Asia, Graptophyllum pictum thrives in warm climates and is an excellent choice for adding texture and color to garden borders, containers, or as an indoor plant in bright, sunny spots.
Light requirements
Graptophyllum pictum grows best in bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate some light shade. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, but its colorful leaves will be most vibrant when it gets plenty of light. While it can adapt to shadier conditions, too much shade may cause the plant to lose its rich coloration and become leggy. Aim for 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight for optimal leaf color and growth.
Soil preferences, including pH and drainage
This plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It thrives in loamy or sandy soil but can tolerate a variety of soil types as long as they drain well. Graptophyllum pictum doesn’t like standing water, so good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. If growing in a container, use a well-draining potting mix designed for tropical plants.
Water needs
Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the growing season. Be careful not to overwater, as Graptophyllum pictum doesn’t like to sit in waterlogged soil. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and always ensure that the plant's pot has proper drainage if you're growing it indoors or in containers. During the winter months, you can reduce watering, but still, keep the soil from drying out completely.