Brazilian Croton: A Non-Native Annual Worth Knowing About
If you’ve stumbled across the name Brazilian croton (Croton glandulosus var. scordioides), you might be wondering what exactly this plant is and whether it belongs in your garden. This interesting little annual has found its way into parts of the United States, though it’s not originally from here. Let’s dive into what makes this plant tick and whether it deserves a spot in your landscape.
What Is Brazilian Croton?
Brazilian croton is a non-native annual forb that belongs to the spurge family. As a forb, it’s essentially an herbaceous flowering plant – meaning it doesn’t develop woody stems like shrubs or trees. Instead, it stays soft and green throughout its growing season, completing its entire life cycle in just one year.
This plant has established itself as an introduced species in the United States, meaning it reproduces on its own in the wild without human intervention and has managed to persist in our ecosystems.
Where You’ll Find Brazilian Croton
Currently, Brazilian croton has been documented growing in Alabama and Pennsylvania. That’s quite a geographic spread for a non-native plant, suggesting it’s adaptable to different regional conditions across these states.
Should You Grow Brazilian Croton?
Here’s where things get interesting. While Brazilian croton isn’t listed as invasive or noxious, it’s also not contributing to our native ecosystems in the same way that indigenous plants do. As a non-native species, it doesn’t provide the same benefits to local wildlife, pollinators, and soil health that our native plants offer.
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of Brazilian croton, consider these fantastic native annual options that will support your local ecosystem:
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) – attracts bees and butterflies
- Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) – beloved by goldfinches and other seed-eating birds
- Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – a pollinator magnet with medicinal properties
- Wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) – perfect for hummingbirds
If You Choose to Grow It
Should you decide to include Brazilian croton in your garden, treat it as you would most annual forbs. Since specific growing information for this variety is limited, here are some general guidelines:
- Plant after the last frost date in your area
- Provide well-draining soil
- Choose a location with adequate sunlight
- Water regularly but avoid waterlogged conditions
- Remember that as an annual, it will complete its life cycle in one growing season
The Bottom Line
While Brazilian croton might be an interesting botanical specimen, it’s not the best choice for gardeners looking to support local wildlife and ecosystems. Native plants are always the better option – they’re adapted to your local conditions, require less maintenance once established, and provide crucial habitat and food sources for native insects, birds, and other wildlife.
If you’re drawn to the idea of growing something unusual, why not explore the amazing diversity of native plants in your region? You’ll be surprised by the unique and beautiful options that are perfectly suited to your local environment and much more beneficial to the creatures that call your area home.
