Hogwort (Croton capitatus)

Also known as: Woolly croton

Croton capitatus, commonly known as Goatweed or Hogwort, is an annual invasive plant that can reach heights of 30 to 91 cm. Its stems and leaves are covered in dense hairs, giving the plant a distinctive grayish look.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Hogwort

Lifespan

Annual, Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 61 cm

Spread

30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow Green

Images of Hogwort

Quickly Identify Hogwort

Upright stems with dense white to rusty brown woolly hairs, reaching 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall.

Small, densely clustered flowers at stem tips; male flowers have 5 white petals, female lack petals.

Distinct, hairy spherical capsules around 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) in diameter, splitting to reveal seeds.

Gray-green, fuzzy-textured leaves with oval to lance shape, 1-4 inches (2.5-10 cm) long.

Erect stems with light brown, woolly hairs, branching at nodes, supporting moderate thickness and upright growth.

Scientific Classification of Hogwort

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Malpighiales

Family

Spurge

Genus

Rushfoils

Species

Hogwort

Planting and Growing of Hogwort

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Ceramic, Plastic

How to Water Hogwort?

Croton capitatus prefers a moderate watering routine. The soil should be evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Ensure the top inch of soil is dry before the next watering. This helps in preventing root rot and mimics its natural habitat.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Hogwort? ›

What should I do if my Hogwort is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Hogwort? ›

How to save an overwatered Hogwort? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Hogwort?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Croton capitatus thrives in full to partial sun environments, benefiting from daily exposure of 4 to 6 hours. This light regime encourages leaf color development and robust structural growth, optimally supporting its physiological processes.

How much sunlight does Croton capitatus need? ›

What kind of sunlight should it avoid? ›

How does ideal lighting benefit Croton capitatus? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Hogwort?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 75℉

For optimal growth, Croton capitatus thrives best in temperatures ranging from 68°F to 75°F. This range allows for efficient photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, promoting healthy foliage and overall plant vigor. Ensuring temperatures remain within this range can prevent undue stress and potential diseases.

What Soil is Best for Hogwort?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Croton capitatus prefers well-draining soil to prevent root rot. This type of soil ensures that excess water does not stay around the roots, which is crucial for its optimal growth. A soil rich in organic matter provides essential nutrients to Croton capitatus. The presence of organic matter fosters a healthy root system and enhances water retention. The soil should retain enough moisture without becoming waterlogged to support the plant's water needs. This balance is critical for the plant's hydration and nutrient uptake.

How to Fertilize Hogwort?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Croton capitatus typically requires a balanced and modest amount of fertilizer. Too little may stunt its growth, while too much can damage the roots. The best practice is to use a diluted solution at half the recommended strength for liquid fertilizers, ensuring that the soil is neither nutrient-deficient nor overly rich.

How to Prune Hogwort?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by examining the plant closely to identify any branches that are dead or showing signs of disease. These parts should be the first to go, as they can sap energy from the healthy sections of the plant. Use sharp, sterilized pruning shears to trim back overgrown branches. Focus on shaping the plant to encourage bushier growth and a more balanced appearance, cutting stems just above leaf nodes. Prune the tips of healthy branches regularly to encourage bushier growth. This technique will help the plant develop more branches and leaves, resulting in a fuller appearance.

How to Propagate Hogwort plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring,Spring

First, collect ripe seeds from healthy Croton capitatus plants. Clean them gently to remove any adhering fruit pulp and let them dry. This reduces the risk of fungal infection during germination.

Prepare a soil mixture that is well-draining but retains some moisture. Place your prepared seeds or cuttings in a shaded but warm area with indirect sunlight for optimal germination or rooting.

Regularly check for signs of germination in seeds or rooting in cuttings. Keep the soil slightly moist but avoid overwatering, which can lead to fungal issues or rot.

How to Repot Hogwort plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Signs that Croton capitatus needs repotting include roots growing through drainage holes and soil drying out quicker than usual. It's best to repot during its active growing season, spring and summer, to facilitate easy recovery.

Opt for a pot that is one size larger than the current one and has good drainage holes. This ensures proper root space and prevents waterlogging, promoting healthy plant growth by providing adequate aeration and drainage.

Choose a well-draining loamy mix because it provides moisture retention while allowing excess water to escape, preventing root rot. A suitable soil blend contributes to a robust root system and healthy plant development.

Toxicity of Hogwort

Is Hogwort toxic to humans?

Every part of hogwort contains mild toxins that can adversely affect humans when consumed in significant amounts or upon contact, primarily attributed to the presence of croton oil. Symptoms associated with hogwort poisoning encompass vomiting, diarrhea, feelings of nervousness, skin irritation, and blistering. Generally, skin irritations tend to persist for just a few minutes. Given that this plant commonly grows in pastures, fields, roadsides, and prairies, it is advisable to exercise caution when traversing these areas with bare skin. To prevent any skin irritation, it is essential to handle this plant with care while wearing gloves.

Is Hogwort toxic to cat?

Hogwort presents a slight toxicity risk for felines. Poisoning mainly happens when a cat ingests significant amounts of any portion of the plant. If there is suspicion that a cat has consumed hogwort, it is vital to observe for any indications of physical discomfort or illness, as these can arise due to the toxic effects. Early recognition of these symptoms is essential, and pet owners should promptly seek veterinary care to guarantee the health of their animal.

Is Hogwort toxic to dog?

The hogwort plant species is categorized as having a mild level of toxicity for dogs. If canines consume this plant in excessive quantities, they may face a risk of poisoning. Every part of hogwort is deemed toxic, meaning that eating any section of the plant could potentially lead to negative health consequences for dogs. Symptoms resulting from hogwort poisoning can differ, but might include gastrointestinal disturbances such as vomiting or diarrhea, lethargy, or more serious indications depending on how much was consumed. It is essential for dog owners to keep a close watch on their pets and restrict access to hogwort, especially if the dog has a habit of chewing on plants. Should a dog ingest hogwort, it is vital to obtain immediate veterinary assistance to ensure appropriate treatment and management of any symptoms.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.