SafePlants

Alabama Croton (Croton alabamensis)

The Alabama Croton, scientifically known as Croton alabamensis, is a rare native shrub that's gaining recognition for its potential use in gardens. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family, also known as the spurge family, which also includes Poinsettias.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Croton alabamensis E.A. Sm. ex Chapm.
• Common Name: Alabama Croton
• Family: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge Family)
• Taxonomic Rank: Variety
• Synonym: Texabama croton
• Alternative Spelling: C. alabamensis

Distribution and Habitat

• The Alabama Croton is native to North America and is found primarily in Alabama, specifically in Bibb and Tuscaloosa counties.
• It was once believed to be endemic to only three counties in Alabama and Tennessee.
• This shrub typically grows as an understory plant in poor soil along river bluffs, particularly on limestone bluffs.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Alabama Croton is a semi-evergreen to deciduous shrub.
• It is a thicket-forming shrub that can grow to a height of 6 to 10 feet, forming a loose, rounded shape.
• It is described as an irregular, multi-stemmed shrub.
• The leaves are alternate, simple, oblong, and have prominent, silvery scales on both the upper and lower surfaces. They are described as rich apple-green with silvery scales.
• The plant produces yellow flowers.

Quirky Facts

• Crushed leaves of the Alabama Croton are said to have a banana-apple fragrance.

Ecological Role

• The Alabama Croton is considered one of the rarest shrubs in North America.
• The plant can withstand drought and shade.

Further Information

• Discover Life provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Croton alabamensis.