Fever Bush
croton gratissimus
Also known as: ["Fever Plant","Sick Bush"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized deciduous tree native to southern Africa, known for its aromatic leaves and traditional medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Croton |
| Botanical Name: | Croton gratissimus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or indoor pot in bright, sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in intense heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun, protect from harsh midday sun, adjust placement based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend with organic matter for nutrients; check drainage regularly.
Temperature
Warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers stable warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain stable warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize in spring/summer only; dilute to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems to shape the plant and promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; needed to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply, allow excess to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots, avoid cold drafts, protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor in extreme heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer, dilute properly, fertilize during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCroton gratissimus can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in cats if ingested. The sap may also lead to skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Croton gratissimus can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The plant's irritant compounds may cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCroton gratissimus contains irritant compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The sap may cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Croton gratissimus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Croton gratissimus?
A: It has been traditionally used to treat fevers and other ailments due to its medicinal properties.
Q: Does Croton gratissimus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and foliage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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