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Alabama croton

Scientific Name: Croton alabamensis

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: TN (Alabama croton)

       

Alabama Croton (Croton alabamensis)

The Alabama Croton is a rare and attractive shrub native to specific regions of North America. Its attractive foliage and adaptability make it a noteworthy plant for gardens, though its rarity necessitates careful consideration for conservation.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • Belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family (spurge family), the same family as Poinsettia.
  • Forms thickets due to its growth habit.
  • Crushed leaves have a banana-apple fragrance.

Scientific Classification

  • Scientific Name: Croton alabamensis E.A. Sm. ex Chapm.
  • Common Name: Alabama Croton
  • Family: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge Family)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Variety (Croton alabamensis var. alabamensis)
  • Synonym: Texabama Croton (English)

Distribution and Habitat

This rare shrub is primarily found in Bibb and Tuscaloosa counties of central Alabama. Historically, it was believed to be endemic to a few counties in Alabama and Tennessee. It thrives in poor soil along river bluffs, specifically on limestone bluffs.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • A semi-evergreen to deciduous shrub, often described as semi-evergreen.
  • Grows between 6 to 10 feet tall, forming a loose, rounded shape.
  • Known to form thickets.
  • Leaves are alternate, simple, oblong, with prominent, silvery scales on both surfaces.
  • Mature shrubs have distinctive bark.

Ecological Role

Alabama Croton is considered one of the rarest shrubs of North America. It can withstand drought and shade, enabling it to thrive in specific environments.

Quirky Facts

  • Crushed leaves are reported to have a banana-apple fragrance.

Additional Information

  • The Tyler Arboretum has identified and displays the Alabama Croton.
  • An Experimental Garden demonstrates organic gardening techniques, an Ornamental Garden includes rare species such as the Alabama croton
  • Discover Life provides a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Croton alabamensis.