Croton variegatum, commonly known as croton or garden croton, is a tropical plant species that is native to India and Malaysia but has since been widely cultivated as a decorative houseplant around the world. Croton is characterized by its brightly colored and variegated leaves, which can range in color from yellow, orange, red, and green to black, depending on the cultivar. The leaves are often long and narrow, with a smooth or slightly wavy edge, and are arranged alternately on the stem.