How to prune zanzibar croton

Spring, as growth resumes. Cut leggy stems back to just above a leaf node or dormant bud with clean, sharp pruners. Pinch out the growing tip of young shoots to encourage a more branched habit. Wear gloves and wipe the sap off blades immediately after use.

Annually in spring; tip-pinch young specimens through the growing season. Zanzibar Croton, with its narrow strap-like leaves, benefits from occasional pruning to prevent legginess. Prune in spring by cutting bare or overly long stems back to a node, which prompts branching. Wear gloves throughout — the white latex sap irritates skin and is toxic. Young plants respond especially well to tip-pinching.

Cut leggy stems back to just above a leaf node or dormant bud with clean, sharp pruners. Pinch out the growing tip of young shoots to encourage a more branched habit. Wear gloves and wipe the sap off blades immediately after use.