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California croton
Scientific Name: Croton californicus var. californicus
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
California Croton (Croton californicus)
The California Croton, scientifically known as Croton californicus, is a fascinating native plant of the western United States and Baja California.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- This plant produces sap, characteristic of the Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae).
- The flowers are described as small and inconspicuous.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Croton californicus Müll.Arg.
- Common Names: California Croton, Desert Croton
- Family: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)
- Synonyms: Croton californicus var. longipes (M.E. Jones) A.M. Ferguson
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and Baja California.
- Found in sandy areas, including near beaches.
- Observed in oak woodland habitats, particularly in Southern California (e.g., Fallbrook, near the Santa Margarita River).
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- A perennial herb.
- Low-growing and grayish-green in color.
- Height ranges from 1 to 5 feet.
- Foliage type is stress-deciduous.
- Flowers are minute and inconspicuous; both male and female flowers occur on the same plant.
- Habit can be ascending or erect, but also found sprawling.
Additional Information
- Flowering season extends for much of the year, from March to November.
- Discover Life offers a page dedicated to the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Croton californicus.