croton

noun

• 1a strong-scented tree, shrub, or herbaceous plant of the spurge family, native to tropical and warm regions. Several kinds yield timber and other commercially important products.

  • Genus Croton, family Euphorbiaceae: numerous species, including C. laccifer, the host plant for the lac insect

• 2a small evergreen tree or shrub of the Indo-Pacific region, which is grown for its colourful ornamental foliage.

  • Genus Codiaeum, family Euphorbiaceae: several species