Croton mammy

Croton Mammy

The Mammy produces a beautiful shiny evergreen leaf that will give you color all year long. It's another classic variety. The leaves twist and give you an eye-catching shape. Grows upward and outward from its stem. In the fall it will produce tiny yellow and white flowers. At maturity indoors can reach 3 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide. In the landscape, they can reach 6 feet tall. Ensure you plant in an area that will accommodate its growth. They are popular due to their vivid colors in the landscape and indoors. Prune when needed year-round to maintain your desired height. Cold hardy in zone 9. Said to be drought tolerant once established but like most plants prefer a regular watering schedule. They like well-draining soil that will remain moist but not wet! They like a bright-light location in the landscape but not too much direct sunlight. Especially our hot western summer sun. Moderately salt tolerant. Said to be moderately deer-resistant. Croton leaves are toxic to cats, dogs, other pets and livestock, so plant where your munchers can get to them. Use them in the landscape as a border plant or in front of that tall hedge. Use along a walkway or driveway. Also can brighten up a mass planting bed. You can even grow them in containers and bring them indoors during our brief cold snaps. When growing indoors ensure they are in a bright light location. Remember they like humidity and heat! Keep out of the line of your AC/heat ducts. The warm and/or cold breeze can affect your plant. Dust occasionally indoors.  They make beautiful additions in your cut flower arrangements.  Wherever you choose to use the Mammy it will give you color throughout the year! Fertilize in the spring, summer, and fall with a good granular slow-release tropical fertilizer. Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.

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The FARM and Big League Garden Center is located at 1625 Airport Rd., Ormond Beach, FL 32174. Just west of the I95 overpass and east of Tymber Creek Rd. Hours are 10am to 4pm - Tuesday to Saturday.