Woolly Croton
Croton capitatus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, DE, GA and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Woolly croton is a soft-textured annual wildflower with silvery-green foliage and small, inconspicuous flowers. This drought-tolerant prairie native thrives in sunny locations and provides consistent summer color through its attractive fuzzy leaves.
In an HOA neighborhood
Woolly Croton takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Has a weedy, informal appearance
- Self-seeds unpredictably
- May be mistaken for an unwanted weed by neighbors
Wildlife value
The long blooming period from June through September provides nectar for bees and beetles. Seeds also feed birds later in the season.
Common questions
- How much sun does Woolly Croton need?
- Woolly Croton grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Woolly Croton bloom?
- Woolly Croton blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Woolly Croton native?
- Woolly Croton (Croton capitatus) is native to AL, AR, DE, GA and 22 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Woolly Croton attract?
- Woolly Croton draws bees and beetles.
- Is Woolly Croton HOA-friendly?
- Woolly Croton takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Woolly Croton? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz