Location specific values:
Array
(
    [lat] => 39.433700
    [lng] => -77.414100
    [elevation] => 102.4604
    [rainfall] => 959.0609
    [cold_temperature] => -5.2014
    [temperature] => 30.9956
    [user_eto] => 1062.36631524
)
Plant specific values:
Array
(
    [rain_min_irrigation] => 438
    [eto_corrected] => 1742
    [eto_adjusted_rain_min (rain_min_irrigation / eto_corrected)] => 0.25143513
)
Large Fever Berry (Croton megalobotrys) | Easyscape Plant Profile

Large Fever Berry

(Croton megalobotrys)

Large Fever Berry (Croton megalobotrys)

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Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Climate Requirements for Frederick, Maryland

This Plant Your Site Plant Suitability for Your Location
Precipitation 13" - 47" 38" Aquatic Aquatic
High Temp. 73°F - 99°F 88°F Your summer temperatures are normal for this plant. Excellent
Low Temp. 34°F - 57°F 23°F Your winter temperatures may be too cold for this plant Too cold
This plant may not grow well at your location - your precipitation is too high.

Summary

Croton megalobotrys, commonly known as Large Fever Berry or Large-leaved Croton, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the woodland and forest margins of Southern Africa, particularly thriving in bushveld and along stream banks. It is often found on sandy or rocky soils. This species typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) and a width of 10-15 feet (3-4.6 meters). The Large Fever Berry is characterized by its large, broad leaves and inconspicuous yellow flowers that bloom in the spring. The flowers may not be showy, but they are followed by distinctive three-lobed capsules that split open to reveal bright red seeds, which are quite ornamental.

The Large Fever Berry is valued for its attractive foliage and the striking contrast of its red seeds against the greenery, making it a unique ornamental plant. It is used in gardens and landscapes for shade, as a focal point, or for naturalizing areas. It is adaptable to full sun or part shade and prefers medium or fast-draining sandy or loam soils. While it requires medium amounts of water, it is somewhat drought-tolerant once established. Gardeners should be aware that the sap of Croton megalobotrys can be irritating to the skin and toxic if ingested, and it may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 10-20 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Woodland and forest margins, bushveld, and along stream banks in Southern Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Large-leaved croton, Fever tree

Scientific Names: Croton megalobotrys, Croton gubouga, Oxydectes megalobotrys

GBIF Accepted Name: Croton megalobotrys